RSPCA CRACKDOWN ON CRUELTY CASE INVOLVING JULIE KNIGHT AND SIDNEY REES IN SOUTH WALES

Julie Knight, born on 27 January 1974, and Sidney Jamie Rees, born on 28 March 1973, both of Cae’r Gwerlas, Tonyrefail CF39 8HU, were convicted in 2025 for neglecting their dog, Athena, an American bulldog with a large facial tumour. Despite being supplied with RSPCA vouchers and under advisement, the couple failed to take Athena to a veterinarian.

The RSPCA described Athena as a loyal pet suffering from an enlarged face caused by a substantial tumour. Her owners refused to seek veterinary treatment, even after interventions by animal rescue officers.

In January 2024, RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Andrew Harris visited their home and examined Athena. He reported, “I could see that she had a small swelling on the right side of her face about the size of a golf ball. I asked Mr Rees about it, and he told me that she had her teeth removed about a year ago on that side. He also said that the swelling had appeared recently.” Harris noted that Rees confirmed Athena had not been to a vet for the recent swelling.

Rees and Knight were provided with an Animal Welfare Assessment form and an RSPCA Veterinary Assistance Voucher, with Harris advising that Athena needed veterinary care within seven days.

The authorities presented multiple statements from RSPCA inspectors and officers who attempted to access Athena and repeatedly advised that she required urgent veterinary treatment.

On April 24, 2024, Animal Rescue Officer Lauren Perry was granted access to the property, where she observed Athena. Perry described her observations: “I could immediately see that her face was swollen, and her right eye was partly closed. Despite this, she was in good bodily condition, bright, and alert. However, her face was very swollen.” Perry was told that Athena had not been taken to the vet due to lack of transport. Concerned for her welfare, Perry asked to take her to the vet, and her owners consented.

At the veterinary clinic, the vet clearly explained that Athena was suffering and that only euthanasia could prevent further pain. Perry recounted: “I heard Ms Knight tell the vet that this issue had been ongoing since June 2023. She explained that Athena’s teeth were removed at a different veterinary practice, and that’s when the problems started. Ms Knight stated that since June 2023, Athena had not received any further veterinary treatment.”

Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Black commented on the case: “This is an extremely heartbreaking situation. Athena’s owners failed to ensure she received necessary veterinary care, resulting in her suffering unnecessarily.”

Regarding sentencing, both Knight and Rees received a 12-month community order with 10 days of rehabilitation, each fined £80, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £114, and costs totaling £532.50. They were also banned from keeping dogs for two years, with the ban set to expire in February 2027.

This case highlights ongoing efforts by the RSPCA to enforce animal welfare laws and protect vulnerable animals from neglect.