GREG BAKER'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN LLANDEILO: HORSES AND FOXHOUNDS SUFFERING IN RIVERS OF NEGLECT

Gregory Edward Baker, a huntsman born on October 31, 1980, and residing in Troedythiw, Rhydcymerau, Llandeilo SA19 7PT, has been convicted in 2024 of multiple counts of animal cruelty involving five equines and a foxhound. The case was heard at Llanelli Magistrates Court, where Baker was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to these animals through prolonged neglect and failure to provide proper care.

According to court records, Baker, who was most recently associated with the now-defunct Llandeilo Farmers Hunt, neglected to address the deteriorating physical conditions of the animals under his care. The six animals, which included five horses and one foxhound, were found to be in a state of severe malnutrition and suffering from various health issues. The equines had body condition scores ranging from 0 to 0.5 out of 5, indicating extreme emaciation and neglect. They were also infested with lice and suffering from rain scald, a painful skin condition caused by prolonged exposure to wet and harsh weather conditions.

One of the horses, a small Shetland pony, was rescued weighing only 60 kilograms. After being taken into the care of the RSPCA, the pony quickly gained 20 kilograms, highlighting the extent of its prior malnutrition. During the investigation, the RSPCA inspectors visited Baker’s property, which included dog kennels where several female hounds were kept. The inspectors noted that one of the hounds was lame on its front leg, and Baker was advised to seek veterinary treatment, but it appears that no adequate action was taken.

Tragically, the court heard that Baker requested the euthanasia of a foxhound with an untreated ulcerated and prolapsed penis. Another male hound found at the kennels was also suffering from a similar condition, with an infected, ulcerated, and prolapsed penis, accompanied by a foul smell described by the veterinarian as “rotting flesh.” The veterinarian explained that the only options for the dog were partial penile amputation and castration, urethrostomy, or euthanasia. Baker chose to have the dog put down.

During the RSPCA’s visit, a Shetland pony was observed collapsing and had to be assisted back to its feet, further illustrating the severity of neglect. The court was informed that the neglect was so severe that one of the horses had to be euthanized due to its condition.

In addition to the physical neglect, Baker was found guilty of failing to treat the animals’ lameness, skin diseases, and malnutrition. He also neglected to provide a suitable environment and diet, which are fundamental responsibilities of animal caretakers. Despite the gravity of these offences, Baker initially pleaded not guilty to all charges but was ultimately convicted after evidence was presented.

Photographs of the animals and the conditions were provided by the Hunt Saboteurs Association, emphasizing the severity of the case. The court considered Baker’s previous record in animal care, which was described as good, and noted that a recent RSPCA inspection in July 2023 showed some improvements in the horses’ conditions. The magistrates decided against disqualifying Baker from keeping animals, citing the potential impact on his dependants and the possibility of rehabilitation.

Mrs. Alison Elizabeth Dorothy Evans, chair of the magistrates, explained that the decision to suspend Baker’s sentence was influenced by his role as the primary carer for his wife, Gemma Baker, and their children, as well as the prospects for his rehabilitation. The court’s ruling included a 20-week prison sentence suspended for 24 months, a 12-month community order requiring 150 hours of unpaid work, and financial penalties totaling £2,719.45 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge. Notably, Baker was not disqualified from owning animals, a decision that drew some controversy but was justified by the court’s assessment of his potential for reform.

This case underscores the critical importance of animal welfare laws and the responsibilities entrusted to pet owners and handlers to ensure the health and well-being of their animals. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and the ongoing need for vigilance and enforcement in animal protection.