GILLIAN WALTON FROM HARPURHEY SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOGS IN MANCHESTER

Gillian Sharon Walton, born on June 27, 1964, and residing at Norbet Walk in Harpurhey, Manchester M9 5UF, has been found guilty of severe animal neglect that resulted in the death of one dog and critical suffering of another. The case highlights the tragic consequences of neglect and the importance of animal welfare laws in the Manchester area.

Walton’s failure to properly care for her two Shih Tzus, Millie and Cindy, led to a heartbreaking situation where one of the dogs, Millie, died due to neglect, and the other, Cindy, was found in a dire state requiring urgent veterinary intervention. She pleaded guilty to charges of causing unnecessary suffering to the animals and neglecting their basic welfare needs, including proper feeding, grooming, and living conditions.

According to reports, Walton allowed her dogs to endure chronic flea infestations, which ultimately caused severe anemia. By the time the RSPCA intervened, Millie had already succumbed to her condition, while Cindy was in a critical state, requiring immediate emergency treatment and ongoing rehabilitation. Both dogs were in poor physical condition, with heavily matted coats, untreated skin infections, and eye conditions. Their living environment was equally deplorable, characterized by unsanitary conditions, including piles of rubbish and a pervasive smell of ammonia.

In July 2023, RSPCA animal rescue officer Jessica Pierce visited Walton’s residence after receiving reports that a dog had died and another was being severely neglected. Upon entering the property, she was met with a strong ammonia odor and observed the filthy state of the premises, with old and fresh feces scattered across the floors. Cindy was found to be severely underweight, with ribs, spine, and hip bones prominently visible, indicating a lack of proper nutrition.

During the investigation, Walton admitted that Millie had died and was wrapped in a blanket upstairs. Cindy was seized by the RSPCA and taken to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for examination and treatment. Veterinary clinician Dr. Shannon McCall assessed the dogs and explained that Millie’s death was likely caused by a severe flea infestation leading to anemia, which would have caused weakness, lethargy, and significant discomfort. The constant irritation from fleas would have contributed to her suffering and eventual death.

Dr. McCall emphasized that the living conditions were grossly inadequate for the dogs’ welfare, lacking clean, dry, and comfortable resting areas, and that their grooming needs had been neglected. Fortunately, Cindy responded well to treatment, regained a healthy weight, and her coat and skin improved significantly. She was subsequently rehomed by the RSPCA, finding a new, loving family.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 16-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with up to 15 days of rehabilitation activities. Walton was also ordered to pay costs of £200 and a victim surcharge of £154. Additionally, she received a five-year ban on owning or caring for any animals, which will remain in effect until September 2029. This case underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement of animal welfare laws in Manchester and beyond.