DEBORAH BARKLEY AND MATTHEW DOVE FROM LEEDS SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY DOG OREO

A couple from Leeds, Deborah Barkley and Matthew Dove, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to their elderly pet, Oreo, a 12-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The charges stem from their neglectful treatment of the dog, which involved ignoring his medical needs and failing to provide proper nutrition, leading to severe health deterioration.

On June 19, 2024, Inspector Jenny Anderson from the RSPCA visited the couple’s residence following reports of a dog with missing fur and scabs covering parts of his body. Upon inspection, she observed large patches of pale, hairless skin, and signs of extreme neglect. Oreo was in a state of significant emaciation, with his spine prominently visible, indicating a lack of adequate nourishment. The inspector noted that Oreo’s condition was so dire that immediate intervention was necessary to prevent further suffering. She issued a warning notice to Barkley and Dove, instructing them to have Oreo examined by a veterinarian within two weeks. Recognizing their financial difficulties, she also provided a welfare voucher to assist with veterinary expenses, as they had admitted that money was a barrier to proper care.

Despite the warning, a follow-up visit by another RSPCA officer on July 9 revealed that Oreo had not yet received veterinary attention. Subsequently, the couple agreed to allow the RSPCA to take Oreo for assessment. The veterinarian’s examination confirmed the worst fears: Oreo was dangerously underweight, weighing only 7.3 kilograms, with a body condition score of just two out of nine, where a healthy dog typically scores around four or five. The vet also observed stiff hind limbs, overgrown nails, and multiple health issues including skin infections, ear infections, dental disease, and mental distress, which made eating painful for Oreo. Given his suffering, the veterinarian made the compassionate decision to euthanise Oreo on the same day as the examination, considering it the kindest course of action.

During the court proceedings, the solicitor representing Barkley and Dove argued that Matthew Dove’s role in Oreo’s neglect was minimal and that he had little insight into the dog’s suffering. However, the court acknowledged that both had a duty of care towards their pet. Barkley’s defense cited her financial struggles, as well as her experiences with anxiety and depression, which she claimed contributed to her inability to care for Oreo properly. She admitted that she “could and should have done more” for her beloved pet.

Following the trial, the couple was sentenced to a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, they received a lifetime ban from owning animals, a measure aimed at preventing similar neglect in the future. Inspector Joanne Taylor from the RSPCA expressed her heartbreak over Oreo’s suffering, emphasizing that “The thought of any animal suffering so unnecessarily, especially an elderly dog who should be living out his retirement years happily, is heartbreaking.” She urged pet owners facing financial difficulties to seek support from welfare charities to avoid neglectful situations. The court’s ruling also recommended lifelong bans for both Barkley and Dove to safeguard animals from further harm.