LYNN WOODHOUSE

A woman from South Tyneside has been given a three-year prohibition from owning animals after neglecting her Sharpei.

Lynn Woodhouse of Wilberforce Street, Jarrow, was sentenced at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court for failing to obtain veterinary help for her dog, Mr Bojangles.

It emerged that the 61-year-old had left his severe skin condition untreated for over a year, despite evident health issues.

In June, an RSPCA officer visited her home after being advised multiple times to take the dog to a vet.

When there was no reply to the officer’s knocks, police assisted and gained entry.

Due to the dog’s dire condition, officers seized Mr Bojangles and handed him over to the RSPCA, resulting in significant health improvements following veterinary care.

RSPCA Inspector Rowena Proctor recounted her experience: “There was no response at the door.

I saw a shopping trolley through the letterbox and detected a strong yeasty smell.” She then located Mr Bojangles in the backyard, noticing fur loss from his mid-back to tail and what seemed to be white cream on his skin.

The home itself was cluttered and dirty, with limited usable floor space.

Veterinary diagnosis suggested neglect and welfare issues, as the dog exhibited extensive fur loss, dermatitis, thickening of skin from chronic conditions, and constant itching from likely external parasite infestation such as fleas, ticks, and mites.

After treatment, the dog’s condition drastically improved, and Woodhouse eventually transferred ownership to the RSPCA.

The court acknowledged her recent bereavement and mental health challenges.

Alongside the ban on owning animals, she received a 12-month community order with 20 days of Rehabilitation Activity, along with a mandatory payment of £400 in costs and a surcharge of £114.