AVOIDED JAIL TIME AFTER AUTHORITIES FOUND OVER 30 DOGS CONFINED WITHIN A DARK METAL SHED
A mother from Poulton and her two sons narrowly avoided immediate imprisonment after being convicted of animal cruelty for confining over 30 dogs inside a dark metal shed for several years.Michelle Wilding, along with her sons Jack and Christopher, appeared at Lancaster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (July 22) and were found guilty.
Although they were sentenced to prison terms, these were suspended, preventing an immediate jail release.
The dogs had been kept in a metal shed at their residence on Mains Lane for an extended period.
A neighbor, who requested anonymity, described the situation: "The noise from the dogs was horrendous for years.
We had the council monitor the noise levels prior to the warrant being issued.
No one realized how dire the conditions truly were.
The RSPCA anticipated finding 14 dogs, but in reality, there were over 30." Following a police raid in November 2023, animal rescue workers from the RSPCA seized more than two dozen dogs from the Wildings’ property.
The RSPCA obtained a warrant after receiving reports of suspected cruelty.
Inspectors were reportedly appalled by the filthy environment, where the dogs spent most of their time amid urine and decayed feces covering the floors.
While Michelle and Christopher received suspended prison sentences, Jack was also sentenced but faced a specific ban and fine.
Michelle was disqualified from owning animals for 15 years, although she can seek to have this lifted after 10 years.
Christopher received the same 15-year ban and a suspended 12-week jail sentence, while Jack was banned from keeping animals for 10 years and received a £270 fine.
The RSPCA will also recover any animals not already in their care.
Additionally, Michelle Wilding was ordered to serve 27 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, and must participate in a 20-day rehabilitation program.
Jack Wilding is disqualified from animal ownership for 10 years, with an option to apply for the restriction to be lifted after 7 years, alongside a fine.
Christopher also faces a 15-year disqualification with the possibility of early application after 10 years.
