LOUISE CLEAVE'S CRUELTY IN DAWLISH: ELDERLY DOG LEFT TO DIE ALONE IN A TOILET

In January 2021, authorities uncovered a heartbreaking case of animal neglect involving Louise Michelle Cleave, a resident of First Avenue, Dawlish, who was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to her elderly dog, Dolci. The tragic circumstances surrounding the dog's death revealed a disturbing level of cruelty and neglect that shocked the local community and animal welfare advocates alike.

Inspectors from the RSPCA responded to a report of concern at Cleave's residence, where they discovered the lifeless body of Dolci, a 15-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier. The dog was found in deplorable conditions, lying on a bed of soiled toilet paper, surrounded by a stained blanket, a heavily soiled pillow, and a puppy training pad that was also filthy. The scene was described as distressing, with the dog emaciated, ribs and spine prominently visible, and her stomach distended and bloated. Old, chopped-up dog meat and water were found in a bowl nearby, indicating some attempt at feeding her, but the overall state of neglect was evident.

Scratches on the door suggested Dolci had been desperately trying to escape her confinement, attempting to claw her way out for some time. The damage indicated prolonged distress and suffering. Cleave admitted to the inspectors that she had left her dog in the toilet because she was feeling unwell herself and was too frightened to check if Dolci was still alive. She claimed she could not afford veterinary treatment and was overwhelmed by her mental health struggles, which she attributed to family issues. She also stated she was unsure if Dolci had died, explaining that she was too scared to look and that the dog might have passed away unnoticed.

Veterinary examinations revealed that Dolci had been suffering from multiple health issues, including a long-standing skin condition, kidney disease, and most critically, pyometra—a severe and often fatal infection of the uterus. The post-mortem confirmed that Dolci had been in a state of severe physical decline, with her weight reduced to just 10 kilograms. Her skeletal structure was clearly visible, with her spine, ribs, and hip bones protruding. The analysis also showed signs of systemic disease in her kidneys and an astonishing two liters of infected, foul-smelling liquid caused by the pyometra, which had accumulated within her abdomen.

According to the prosecutor, Lindi Meyer, the evidence indicated that Dolci had been left to suffer for approximately two weeks, succumbing to septicaemia, septic shock, and kidney failure. The post-mortem findings highlighted the extent of her suffering, which was compounded by her being confined and neglected during her final days. The veterinarian's report emphasized that Dolci's condition was a result of neglect, with her suffering being both significant and ongoing. The report also noted that her skin condition, which could have been treated, was left unaddressed, further exemplifying the neglect she endured.

During the court proceedings, Cleave showed no remorse for her actions. She attempted to shift blame onto others, including the police and the charity Animals in Distress, claiming she had repeatedly contacted them but received no response. Her defense argued that she had loved Dolci for many years and had placed her in the downstairs toilet to protect her from her son's mastiff dog, who had recently returned to live with her. Cleave expressed fear of her son's temper and other family issues, which she said contributed to her mental health deterioration. She insisted she had checked on Dolci the day before the inspectors arrived and believed she had made her comfortable.

Psychological assessments revealed that Cleave suffers from emotionally unstable personality disorder, has been a victim of domestic abuse, and struggles with anxiety and low self-confidence. Her defense highlighted her mental health struggles and her lack of malicious intent, suggesting her neglect was influenced by her psychological state and family circumstances.

In sentencing, the magistrates acknowledged her mental health issues and the mitigating factors, including her current pregnancy and caring responsibilities. However, they condemned her neglect and cruelty, stating that she had failed to provide necessary medical care to a severely ill and suffering dog, leading to her death. Cleave was sentenced to 12 weeks in jail, suspended for 12 months, with an additional 20 days of rehabilitation work through probation. She was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £528 and received a lifetime ban on owning animals, although she can appeal this restriction after 10 years, in April 2031.