JULIET VENABLES AND JOHN ANDERSON FROM MOSS SIDE FACE JUSTICE OVER PET DOG ROCCO'S CRIPPLING SKIN CONDITION

Juliet Venables, born on 13 February 1968, and her son John Anderson, born around 1995, both residents of Fairman Street in Manchester with the postal code M16 7LR, found themselves at the center of a heartbreaking animal welfare case. The pair’s neglect led to the suffering and eventual euthanasia of their beloved mastiff, Rocco, after his skin condition worsened to an unbearable level.

Rocco, a loyal family pet, began showing signs of severe health issues, including hair loss, crusty and thickened skin, and a persistent ear infection. Despite these visible symptoms, Venables and Anderson failed to seek veterinary assistance in a timely manner. It was only when Rocco’s condition became critically severe that another family member intervened, taking the dog to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital in July 2018 for urgent care.

Veterinary professionals at the hospital determined that the most humane course of action was to put Rocco to sleep, as his suffering was deemed too great to endure. The court was informed that both Venables and Anderson expressed remorse for their neglect, acknowledging that they should have acted sooner to prevent Rocco’s deterioration.

Angela Paxton-Taylor, an inspector from the RSPCA, commented on the case, stating, “Rocco had severe hair loss and crusty thickened skin, making it clear he needed veterinary treatment and was likely suffering. This case underscores the importance of seeking immediate veterinary attention if a pet shows signs of illness. Leaving an animal to suffer until it is beyond help is unacceptable.”

During court proceedings, it was revealed that both defendants cooperated with authorities and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. As a result, they were each fined £410, covering costs and charges. Additionally, they received a three-year ban from owning any animals, a restriction that expired in November 2021.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities pet owners have towards their animals and the consequences of neglecting their welfare.