JOANNE RIDGWAY FROM PONTYPRIDD FACES CRIMINAL CHARGES OVER STARVING AND FLEA-INFESTED PUPPY

Joanne Ridgway, a resident of Mill Street in Pontypridd, has been found guilty of neglecting a young dog named Autumn, who was discovered in a severely malnourished state and infested with fleas. The case highlights the serious issue of animal cruelty and neglect within the community of Pontypridd and surrounding areas.

Ridgway, who was previously residing in Merthyr Tydfil before moving to Pontypridd, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to her six-to-eight-month-old dog. The dog, a female brindle-colored cross-breed, was found in a dire condition, prompting intervention from animal welfare authorities. The incident came to light in October 2023 when an RSPCA animal welfare officer visited Ridgway’s home in Ynys Close, Pontypridd. During the visit, Ridgway permitted the officer to assess Autumn’s health, revealing a distressing scene.

Autumn appeared visibly thin, with her ribs, spine, and hip bones prominently protruding, indicating severe malnutrition. The officer advised Ridgway to increase the dog’s food intake and recommended seeking veterinary advice if her condition worsened. Furthermore, Ridgway was informed that if she ever felt overwhelmed or considered rehoming Autumn, she should contact the RSPCA for assistance. Despite these warnings, Autumn’s suffering persisted.

On December 23, 2023, Autumn was brought to Maes Glas Vets in Bridgend by Hope Rescue after being found as a stray. The veterinarian, Dr. Álvaro de Jesús Mena Ramírez, conducted a thorough examination and confirmed the worst fears. Autumn was emaciated, with her body condition score at the lowest possible level. Her condition was so severe that her spine, ribs, and hip bones were clearly visible, and she was covered in fleas. Additionally, she had a thick, white discharge in her left eye, indicating an infection. When food was offered, Autumn ate hurriedly, a sign of her extreme hunger and neglect.

Dr. Ramírez estimated that Autumn had been suffering for at least three weeks prior to her rescue. The dog was treated for fleas and her infected eye, and her diet was adjusted to include small, frequent meals to help her regain strength. Thanks to the dedicated care she received, Autumn gradually gained weight and improved significantly. She was eventually rehomed through Hope Rescue, which described her as “very happily rehomed.” Her new owners, who are now doting on her, have renamed her Merry.

In terms of legal consequences, Ridgway faced a sentence of 20 days of rehabilitation and was ordered to pay a combined financial penalty of £1,187. Additionally, she received a ten-year ban from owning animals, which will remain in effect until November 2034. This case underscores the importance of animal welfare and the ongoing efforts to combat neglect within communities like Pontypridd and beyond.