ANDREW LEEFE AND LOUISE REYNOLDS FROM RAVENSCLIFFE SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO PUPPIES IN BRADFORD

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Andrew Leefe and Louise Reynolds, residents of Ravenscliffe, Bradford, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to puppies under their care. The couple, who previously lived in Bramley, Leeds, faced charges after authorities uncovered severe mistreatment and neglect of two young pocket bullies named Nation and Rose.

On December 6, 2022, a visit from a dog warden and an RSPCA inspector to their home on Ranelagh Avenue, Ravenscliffe, led to the removal of Nation, a young dog suffering from a prolapsed vagina that had gone untreated for an estimated two to three weeks. The condition was so severe that the veterinarian who examined her described the prolapse as “infected and oozing,” with the dog appearing very uncomfortable and unable to sit properly. Nation was subsequently taken to a veterinary clinic where corrective surgery was performed to address her condition.

During the court proceedings, RSPCA inspector Demi Hodby recounted the distressing details of the case. She stated that Nation’s prolapse had been present for several weeks and that the dog was in a state of significant suffering. Despite the evidence, Leefe and Reynolds repeatedly denied that Nation was their dog, claiming she belonged to a friend who refused to pay for her treatment. The couple also refused to disclose which dogs at their property belonged to them or provide contact details for the owners of other animals present.

Further investigations led to the removal of another puppy, Rose, on December 12, 2022. Rose, estimated to be between six and seven months old, was found to be suffering from severe demodex mange, a skin condition characterized by hair loss, redness, inflammation, and the presence of scabs. Reynolds claimed she had been treating Rose with an antibacterial wash, but veterinary examination revealed the dog's skin was in a dire state, with generalized hair loss and signs of prolonged suffering. The vets confirmed that both dogs had been neglected for weeks, with Nation’s prolapse likely ongoing for three weeks and Rose’s skin condition developing over at least four weeks, if not longer.

It was also revealed that Rose’s poor physical condition was partly due to an inappropriate diet maintained over several months. Reynolds accepted responsibility for Rose but denied ownership, expressing a desire to reclaim the dog. Both defendants had previously claimed to have applied for a dog breeding license, although Leefe later stated this application was on hold.

Prosecutor Louise Freeman described the case as “a prolonged case of neglect and a deliberate disregard for animal welfare,” emphasizing the suffering endured by the dogs while in the care of Leefe and Reynolds. The court heard that the neglect was systematic and that the animals’ health had been severely compromised due to the defendants’ failure to seek proper veterinary care.

Defense attorneys argued that Leefe and Reynolds had been advised to carry out home remedies and that they had not intentionally neglected the animals. Mr. Zaman, representing Leefe, stated that his client maintained the dogs were not his and that he had been instructed to perform home treatments. He acknowledged that further action should have been taken but emphasized that no further neglect has occurred since the incident.

Similarly, Mr. Ahmed, representing Reynolds, admitted that she lacked primary responsibility for the dogs but recognized her failure to act promptly once aware of their conditions. He highlighted her mental health issues and her emotional attachment to animals, suggesting that removing her access to animals would significantly impact her well-being.

During the court proceedings, Reynolds was noted to have interrupted multiple times, even questioning the evidence presented by the RSPCA. The case also involved the rehoming of other dogs found at their property, which will now need new owners due to the restrictions imposed.

Sentencing saw Leefe receive a 12-month community order, including 15 days of rehabilitation and 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay costs of £100 and a surcharge of £114. Reynolds received a similar sentence, with a 12-month community order, 20 days of rehabilitation, and costs of £200 along with a victim surcharge of £114. Both individuals were disqualified from owning dogs for five years, a ban that will expire in February 2029.

This case highlights the ongoing issue of backyard breeding and animal neglect in the Bradford area, with authorities emphasizing the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.