JAMES GRAY FROM NEWBRIDGE-ON-WYE SENTENCED FOR STARVING TERRIER IN BUILTH WELLS

James Gray, a resident of Woodlands, Newbridge-on-Wye, Builth Wells, Powys LD2 3SB, was convicted of a severe case of animal cruelty involving a four-year-old terrier named Storm. The incident, which drew significant attention from animal welfare authorities, resulted in Gray being banned from keeping any animals for a period of five years.

Gray’s case came to light after the RSPCA intervened in December 2017 following reports of neglect concerning Storm. Inspector Izzi Hignell responded to the call and discovered the dog in a rural area, where the animal was in a dire state of health. Despite Storm’s shaggy coat, the inspector quickly realized the severity of the situation upon feeling the dog’s body, as every vertebra was palpable through the fur, revealing that Storm was dangerously emaciated and close to death.

Storm was immediately taken to a veterinary clinic for a thorough examination. The vet confirmed that the dog had been suffering from malnutrition for at least two weeks, and the condition was so severe that the dog was essentially a skeleton. When given food at the clinic, Storm demonstrated an extraordinary level of hunger, consuming a bowl of food in just eight seconds, underscoring the neglect he had endured.

Following the rescue, the RSPCA’s investigation revealed that Storm had been left alone for extended periods and was not provided with adequate nutrition. The neglect was described as complete, with the dog suffering from prolonged abandonment and insufficient care. Inspector Hignell expressed her dismay at the situation, stating, “Storm was failed in every way. He was left on his own for long periods of time and he was not given regular food. He had been completely neglected.”

Since being placed under the RSPCA’s care, Storm has made a remarkable recovery. He has gained weight and now appears healthy and well-cared-for. Inspector Hignell praised the transformation, saying, “He is a lovely dog and he is doing amazing now.”

On Wednesday, July 18, 2018, James Gray appeared at Merthyr Tydfil magistrates court to face charges related to causing unnecessary suffering to Storm. Gray pleaded guilty to the offence, which resulted in a sentence of a 12-month community order, along with a fine of £300 to cover costs. Additionally, Gray received a five-year ban on keeping animals, which is set to expire in July 2023. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of animal cruelty cases and the importance of animal welfare enforcement in the region.