DAWN BOUCHER FROM KINGWOOD SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY STAFFY IN BRISTOL

Dawn Boucher, a resident of Kingswood, Bristol, was convicted in 2018 for the severe neglect of her elderly Staffordshire bull terrier, Frasier. The case drew attention to the tragic consequences of neglecting pet health and the responsibilities of pet owners.

Frasier, a 16-year-old dog, was found suffering from a large, ulcerated tumour on his ear and neck. The condition had been developing for some time, with the tumour first appearing before Christmas 2017. Despite the worsening of his health, Boucher failed to seek veterinary treatment, allowing the tumour to grow unchecked and become infected. The neglect was so severe that the tumour caused Frasier significant pain and suffering.

Eventually, the situation reached a critical point when RSPCA officers intervened. They took Frasier to an independent veterinarian, where it was determined that the tumour had become ulcerated and infected, causing him considerable distress. Due to the extent of his suffering, the veterinarian made the difficult decision to euthanize Frasier to end his pain.

RSPCA inspector Simon Coombs, who led the investigation, expressed his disappointment over the case. He stated, “Sadly Frasier suffered from prolonged neglect that could have been avoided by seeking appropriate veterinary care much earlier. He was found to have an untreated tumour on his ear and neck which had become ulcerated and infected.”

Inspector Coombs emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, noting, “Pet owners have a responsibility to address any health conditions their animals may have – ignoring serious issues won’t make them go away. Anyone who is worried about the health of their pet can always seek help and advice from the RSPCA and a number of other animal charities.”

In sentencing, Boucher received an eight-week prison sentence, which was suspended for one year. She was also ordered to pay £350 in costs and was disqualified from keeping animals for five years, a ban that was set to expire in May 2023. The case served as a stark reminder of the legal and moral obligations involved in caring for animals and the consequences of neglect in the Bristol area.