Barnton man avoids jail after neglecting his dog with shocking ulcerated eye

BARNTON MAN AVOIDS JAIL AFTER NEGLECTING HIS DOG WITH SHOCKING ULCERATED EYE

A man from Barnton has received a suspended prison sentence after neglecting his dog, Bodie, a male Golden Retriever aged 11, for over two years with a severe ulcerated and infected eye mass.

The RSPCA inspected the animal on October 29, 2024, following a tip-off.

Inspector Nadine Pengilly described her shock at the dog's condition, noting the large tumour mass above Bodie's right eye, which had split open, bled, and was covered in dead skin, hair, and discharge.

Despite Bodie’s seemingly normal behavior, Fisher claimed he had visited two vets in 2023 who quoted £1,600 for scans, and refused further treatment, citing that the vets aimed to make money.

Consequently, Bodie’s eye condition persisted for over two years.

Veterinarians at RSPCA Greater Manchester decided to end Bodie’s suffering, which necessitated law enforcement seizure of the dog.

Fisher appeared in Warrington Magistrates’ Court on July 2, 2025, pleading guilty to neglect under the Animal Welfare Act from May 2022 to October 2024.

The court heard that the dog’s eye tumor was highly ulcerated, bleeding, and caused Bodie to bump into objects, suffering from pain and distress.

An examination revealed the tumor was large, heavy, causing a head tilt, with dry crusty and pus discharges, and the skin was extremely stretched.

Despite Bodie’s friendly nature, the vet noted he was unhappy when examined.

Fisher expressed remorse and the court imposed an eight-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months, with 100 hours of unpaid work and a five-year ban on keeping animals.

He was also ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge.

RSPCA Inspector Anthony Joynes condemned the neglect, urging pet owners to seek help if struggling with veterinary costs, emphasizing that neglect is never justified and animals should not suffer due to owner negligence.