DAVID FARRINGTON OF ALDERSHOT SENTENCED FOR STARVING DOGS CHANCE AND SCRAPPY

In a disturbing case that highlights neglect and cruelty towards animals, David Lee Farrington, a resident of Aldershot, was found guilty in 2021 of starving and neglecting two dogs, Chance and Scrappy. Farrington, born on December 21, 1980, and residing at 23 Ash Close, Ash, Aldershot GU12 6AR, faced serious charges after the RSPCA uncovered the severe condition of his pets.

On December 3, 2020, RSPCA inspectors visited Farrington’s home following reports and concerns raised by members of the community about the health and wellbeing of his dogs. Upon inspection, the inspectors observed that both Chance and Scrappy were in a critically poor state, with their skeletal frames clearly visible, indicating extreme malnutrition and neglect. Despite the initial advice from the inspectors urging Farrington to seek immediate veterinary assistance, he failed to act on this advice. It was only on December 17 that the RSPCA took the dogs to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.

The veterinarian confirmed that both Chance and Scrappy were suffering from severe malnutrition. At the time of rescue, Scrappy weighed a mere 15 kilograms, while Chance was even more underweight at just 10.2 kilograms. The vet’s assessment revealed that both dogs had been starved, with their emaciated condition caused primarily by a lack of proper nutrition. Fortunately, there were no signs of underlying diseases, and both dogs had been eating well and appeared to be in good spirits since their rescue.

Following their recovery, Chance and Scrappy were rehomed to new families, where they could receive the care and attention they desperately needed. An RSPCA spokesperson commented on the case, stating, “At the time of rescue, Scrappy weighed just 15kg while Chance weighed just 10.2kg and both were visibly underweight. Scrappy had increased his body weight by approximately 15 per cent over one week and approximately 33 per cent over six weeks. Chance had increased his body weight by approximately 29 per cent over one week and approximately 52% over six weeks. The vet found the reason for their initial emaciated state being a lack of nutrition as there were no apparent diseases and both dogs had been happy and eating extremely well since their rescue. The suffering caused to Chance and Scrappy could have been avoided if Farrington had taken responsibility for their welfare and given them an appropriate diet and appropriate care.”

In sentencing, Farrington was ordered to complete 160 hours of unpaid work, pay a total of £290 in costs and charges, and was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals, which will expire in February 2026. The case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, with Farrington’s links to Guildford in Surrey also noted during proceedings.