JACK PEARSON'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN DINNINGTON REVEALED

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Jack Pearson, a resident of Dinnington, Sheffield, has been found guilty of severe mistreatment of two lurchers, Blaze and Sadie. The incident came to light after an inspection by RSPCA officials, revealing the deplorable conditions in which the dogs were kept outside Pearson’s home at 37 Leicester Road.

On October 23, 2023, RSPCA inspector Kim Greaves visited Pearson’s property following reports that two dogs were living in extremely poor conditions and were underweight. During her visit, she observed the dogs tethered separately in an environment that was both filthy and cramped. Blaze, a four-year-old dog, was visibly underweight, lethargic, and had no access to a clean or dry resting area. His kennel was damp, extremely dirty, and stained with blood on the tip of his tail. Sadie, a one-year-old dog, appeared more alert but was covered in a black substance, possibly engine oil or black paint, which coated her legs and paws. Her living space was a storage area with a door left wide open to the elements, and her tether was attached to a fence across from her enclosure.

The ground around the dogs was littered with faeces, creating an unhygienic environment that both animals had to walk through constantly. The water receptacle was green with algae, indicating neglect. There was no evidence of food, and the narrow walkway leading to the rear garden was cluttered with car parts and metal debris, preventing the dogs from accessing a proper outdoor space. Despite the inspector’s efforts, Pearson was not at home during the initial visit, but photographs were taken, and a veterinarian was consulted. The vet confirmed that both Blaze and Sadie were suffering from their living conditions, with signs of neglect and potential health issues if their circumstances remained unchanged.

Later that day, Inspector Greaves returned to the property with police officers. Pearson was present and was informed of the concerns regarding his dogs. He claimed to have cleaned the area and provided fresh bedding and water, denying that the dogs were underweight. He showed the inspector their food, and after a discussion, agreed to allow the dogs to receive veterinary treatment.

The vet’s examination revealed the extent of the neglect. Blaze, weighing 23.8kg, was found to have a body condition score of just 1 out of 9, indicating severe underweight status. He also had pressure sores on his elbows and hips, a bleeding split tail that could not be saved, and a cut on one of his paws. His tail was amputated the following month due to the injury. Sadie, weighing 20.2kg, was covered in a black substance and had similar pressure sores and a split tail. Her body condition score was 2 out of 9, reflecting poor nutrition and health.

Both dogs were immediately treated with antibiotics, pain relief, and flea and worming medication. The veterinarian’s report stated that their suffering was a direct result of Pearson’s failure to provide adequate housing, nutrition, and veterinary care. The low body condition scores and tail injuries suggested that their suffering had persisted for more than three months.

Following treatment and recovery, the dogs showed significant improvement. By a follow-up on January 24, Blaze’s weight had increased to 29.3kg (64.5 pounds), and Sadie’s to 22.5kg (49.6 pounds). They were subsequently cared for at the RSPCA’s rehoming centre in Bawtry, where staff noted a marked improvement in their health and overall wellbeing.

In May 2024, Pearson pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Despite his guilt, he was sentenced to a community order, avoiding imprisonment. His previous history with the RSPCA included a visit in December 2019 concerning concerns over his dogs’ welfare.

Inspector Greaves commented on the case, emphasizing the appalling conditions Blaze and Sadie endured: “They were living a miserable existence tethered in dirty, damp, and cramped kennels that offered little protection from the elements. Their health and wellbeing suffered greatly as a result.” She praised the efforts of the Bawtry centre staff, stating that the dogs now had a much brighter future ahead of them.

Pearson’s sentence included a 12-month community order, 120 hours of unpaid work, and 15 days of rehabilitation. He was also ordered to pay costs of £400 and a victim surcharge of £114. Additionally, he was banned from keeping animals for ten years, a ban he can contest after five years.