CLARE LOCKETT FROM PEMBERTON SENTENCED FOR NEGLECTING GERMAN SHEPHERD CARA IN WIGAN

Clare Lockett, a resident of 19 Howard Street in Pemberton, Wigan, was found guilty in a court of law for failing to provide adequate veterinary care for her dog, Cara, a German shepherd. The case highlighted serious concerns about animal welfare and neglect, with the incident taking place at a time when the dog was suffering from multiple health issues.

On August 24, 2021, Cara was brought to the RSPCA Wigan, Leigh and District branch clinic after her owner, Clare Lockett, noticed her in a distressed state. The veterinary surgeon, Darinka Toth, examined the dog and discovered that Cara was suffering from a severe skin condition known as anal and skin furunculosis, an immune-mediated disease that is particularly common among German shepherds. The dog was found to be in a dire state, with wounds covering her paws and legs, and was significantly underweight.

According to the veterinarian’s report, Cara had been experiencing these health issues for at least two weeks, though Lockett claimed she had only noticed the skin problems a few weeks prior. She had been bathing the dog and had even applied bandages to her legs in an attempt to manage her condition. Despite these efforts, Cara’s condition was grave. She weighed only 23.3 kilograms and had a body condition score of just one out of nine, indicating severe emaciation. Lockett stated that she had only recently become aware of the weight loss, just a week before taking her to the clinic.

The vet described the wounds as infected and painful to touch. A particularly large wound located beneath Cara’s tail caused her significant discomfort and made it difficult for her to toilet normally. The infections in her nail beds and the wounds on her paws caused her pain when standing or walking. The veterinarian offered to euthanize Cara to end her suffering, a proposal that Lockett accepted. Dr. Toth expressed her concern, stating, “In my opinion, Cara was suffering for at least two weeks, but probably for a much longer period. A responsible owner would have sought veterinary care immediately upon noticing the wounds and weight loss.”

In court, Lockett pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, specifically for causing unnecessary suffering to her dog. The court heard that she was affected by learning difficulties, as well as suffering from anxiety and depression, which may have contributed to her delay in seeking help. Despite her personal struggles, she acknowledged that she should have taken Cara to the vet sooner.

Additionally, Anthony Wilcock, born around 1978 and sharing the same address, was accused of similar offenses related to Cara. However, these charges were ultimately withdrawn.

As part of her sentencing, Lockett was ordered to pay a total fine of £734. She was also banned from owning dogs for a period of ten years, a measure intended to prevent any future neglect or abuse. The case has drawn attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and timely veterinary intervention in cases of animal health issues, emphasizing the need for owners to act swiftly when their animals show signs of suffering.