FRANK ROGERS FROM MONSALL FACES COURT OVER CRUELTY TO DOG IN MANCHESTER

Frank Rogers, a resident of 276 Queens Road in the Monsall area of Manchester, has been brought before the court following a disturbing case of neglect involving his dog, Buster. Born on December 1, 1955, Rogers was found to have failed in providing necessary veterinary care for his pet, which was suffering from severe health issues for an extended period.

According to reports, Buster, a terrier cross, had been left in a state of extreme neglect for several weeks before intervention. The dog was discovered in a dire condition, exhibiting signs of chronic skin disease, hair loss, and infections. The RSPCA officers who responded to a report about a 'bald dog' at Rogers' residence on April 14, 2023, described the animal's condition as 'very poor.'

When RSPCA animal rescue officer Helen Chapman arrived at Rogers' home, she observed Buster lying on his side on a chair, covered with a blanket except for his head. The officer noted that the dog showed no attempt to move and appeared to be in significant distress. The dog's skin was dry, pink, and bald, indicating severe skin issues. Rogers admitted that he had acquired Buster from a friend approximately a year earlier and claimed that the loss of fur was a recent development.

Rogers consented to having Buster taken to the RSPCA Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for assessment. Unfortunately, veterinary examination revealed that Buster was suffering from multiple health problems, including infections in both ear canals, overgrown nails that caused pain and difficulty walking, and extensive alopecia. The dog was also underweight, with a body condition score of just two out of nine, highlighting his poor nutritional state.

The veterinarian concluded that Buster's suffering had likely persisted for many weeks, if not longer. The overgrown nails would have caused ongoing pain, and the chronic skin and ear conditions indicated long-term neglect. The ear infections, in particular, would have been a source of constant discomfort, with the dog shaking his head in distress and unable to find relief. Given the severity of his condition, the vet determined that humane euthanasia was the most compassionate option to end his suffering.

Following the investigation, Rogers pleaded guilty to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The court sentenced him to a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, Rogers was ordered to pay costs of £100 and a victim surcharge of £114. As part of the court's ruling, he is also subject to a 10-year ban on owning or keeping any animals, aiming to prevent similar neglect in the future.