HULL DOG OWNERS CHANTAL BRAY AND SHAUN MATTHEWSON FACING JUSTICE OVER FLEA-INFESTED STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIERS

In a disturbing case that has shocked animal welfare advocates in Kingston upon Hull, Chantal Bray and Shaun Matthewson, both residents of Palmcourt, Orchard Park, were found guilty of neglecting their pet dogs, leading to severe suffering due to a flea infestation. The two Staffordshire bull terriers, named Madison and Roxy, endured such extreme conditions that they scratched off their own fur, leaving their skin covered in scabs and causing them significant pain.

Authorities from the RSPCA intervened after receiving reports about the dogs' dire condition. When inspectors visited Bray and Matthewson’s home, they observed the distressing state of the animals. The images presented in Hull Magistrates’ Court vividly depicted the extent of the neglect, prompting the question from Deputy District Judge Nick Hayles: “Just to be clear, have these dogs been shaved?”

Prosecutor Philip Brown, representing the RSPCA, clarified the situation, stating, “No, your honour. These dogs were scratching themselves so hard that they shed their own skin. Their skin became scabbed, dry and flaky.” He emphasized that Madison and Roxy had suffered for an extended period, highlighting the owners’ failure to fulfill their basic responsibilities as pet owners.

Brown recounted that the RSPCA’s involvement began when a warden was called to assist Bray and Matthewson with some cats. During the visit, Bray also requested the warden to examine her dogs, who were visibly suffering from skin issues. The inspector confirmed the presence of live fleas on both animals and advised that they needed immediate flea treatment. However, when the inspector returned nine days later, he observed that the dogs’ condition had worsened significantly.

It was then insisted that urgent veterinary care was necessary. Bray agreed to transfer ownership of Roxy and Madison to the RSPCA to ensure their treatment and recovery. Both defendants pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, a violation of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Since their rescue, Madison and Roxy have made a full recovery, thanks to prompt veterinary intervention and proper care.

In sentencing, Bray received a 12-month community order with 25 days of rehabilitation, while Matthewson was also sentenced to a 12-month community order, which included 60 hours of unpaid work and 10 days of rehabilitation. Both were ordered to pay costs totaling £260 and were banned from owning dogs for four years, a ban that expired in April 2020.