LAURA WEBB FROM GARNDIFFAITH SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO BORDER COLLIE BOBBIE IN PONTYPOOL, TORFAEN

In a case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare advocates, Laura Marie Webb, a resident of Herberts Road in Garndiffaith, Pontypool, Torfaen, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to her pet dog, a border collie named Bobbie. Webb, born on December 22, 1990, and a mother of three, faced the court after her neglect led to her dog becoming severely underweight and in poor health.

The incident came to light when RSPCA inspector Simon Evans encountered Bobbie on April 21, 2021. Despite the dog appearing bright, active, and alert, the inspector immediately noticed that Bobbie was in a dire state of malnutrition. The dog’s spinal ridge and ribs were clearly visible, and her hip bones were prominently protruding, indicating a significant lack of proper nourishment. Webb had initially claimed that Bobbie’s weight loss was due to her ingesting Easter eggs she found, which made her sick. She also stated that she had consulted an out-of-hours veterinarian, who advised feeding Bobbie a bland diet to help her recover.

However, Webb admitted that Bobbie had not been examined by a vet and allowed the inspector to take her for a thorough check-up. At the veterinary clinic, it was confirmed that Bobbie was suffering from malnutrition and weighed only 9.8 kilograms (approximately 21.6 pounds), far below the ideal weight of around 16 kilograms (about 35.2 pounds). This stark difference underscored the severity of her condition, prompting authorities to seize her under police powers. Bobbie was then taken to a local boarding kennel for care.

Under veterinary supervision, Bobbie was placed on a specialized diet plan and underwent surgery to address a suspected blockage in her duodenum. Her recovery was gradual but promising. Inspector Evans reported that by early June, Bobbie’s weight had increased to 15.5 kilograms (roughly 34.2 pounds). The transformation was remarkable once she was removed from the kennels and placed with a foster carer, which allowed her to regain strength and health. Today, Bobbie is described as a very healthy dog with no ongoing weight concerns.

In sentencing, Laura Webb received a 16-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £1,128. Additionally, Webb was handed a three-year ban on owning dogs, which will remain in effect until February 2025. The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting pet responsibilities, serving as a reminder to pet owners about the critical need for proper care and attention.