AVOIDED JAIL TIME AFTER AUTHORITIES FOUND OVER 30 DOGS CONFINED WITHIN A DARK METAL SHED
A mother from Poulton and her two sons narrowly escaped immediate imprisonment after it was revealed they had kept over 30 dogs confined within a dark metal shed for several years.Michelle Wilding, along with her sons Jack and Christopher, was found guilty of animal cruelty in a case heard at Lancaster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, July 22.
Despite the conviction, they did not face immediate jail time.
The dogs, numbering more than 30, were kept in a metal shed at their residence on Mains Lane for an extended period.
A neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the situation: “The constant barking was unbearable for years.
We had the local council come out to assess the noise levels before a warrant was issued.” The neighbor added, “No one knew how severe the conditions were.
The RSPCA initially expected to find 14 dogs, but there were over 30.” Following a police raid in November 2023, the RSPCA rescued more than two dozen dogs from the squalid conditions at the Wilding household.
The animal welfare organization sought a warrant after receiving reports of cruelty.
Officers encountered horrendous conditions, with the dogs spending most of their time in dark, filthy environments covered with urine and decaying dog feces.
Michelle Wilding and her son Christopher received suspended prison sentences of two years.
They are also prohibited from owning animals for 15 years, with Michelle’s ban allowing her to potentially request its removal after a decade.
Jack Wilding’s ban is for 10 years, alongside a fine of £270.
Specifically, Michelle Wilding faces a 15-year ban from owning animals, though she may apply to lift this restriction after 10 years.
The RSPCA is authorized to take possession of any animals not already under their care.
Michelle must serve 27 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, and attend a 20-day rehabilitation program.
Jack Wilding is disqualified from owning animals for 10 years, with the possibility of lifting this after seven.
The RSPCA will seize any unclaimed animals, and Jack has been fined £270.
Christopher Wilding is banned from owning animals for 15 years, with potential for a review after 10, and will have his custody of animals transferred to the RSPCA.
He received a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 24 months.
The case highlights severe neglect, with authorities stepping in to prevent further cruelty and ensure animal welfare.
