MICHAEL WADE FROM LANGPORT SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG DORA IN SOMERSET
In 2016, Michael John Wade, born on April 19, 1978, from Langport in Somerset, was convicted of starving his pet dog to near-death.Wade neglected Dora by not providing sufficient food, leading to her being found in his home in a state of extreme distress.
The dog was severely underweight, so much so that she was emaciated and unable to stand.
She was vocalizing loudly and appeared to be in significant pain.
During police interviews, Wade admitted that the dog's condition was quite poor.
He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Dora between August 12 and November 12, 2015, by failing to properly address her weight loss.
After receiving proper care—including regular feeding and fluids—Dora gained three kilograms over three weeks and was described as alert and lively.
However, RSPCA inspector Peter Barton later reported that the dog began experiencing seizures and had to be euthanized; he clarified that the seizures were not definitively linked to the neglect.
Wade's solicitor, Ray Peters, explained that his client had endured personal hardships in recent years and was the primary carer for his partner, Kirstie Louise Cox, who was reportedly experiencing mental health issues.
He mentioned that Wade's partner had expressed disfavor toward the dog, contributing to its sidelining.
Wade also claimed financial and transportation difficulties, stating he lacked the resources to afford veterinary treatment or transport for the dog.
Despite this, Wade expressed genuine remorse for his actions, noting his emotional attachment to Dora.
The court sentenced Wade to eight weeks in prison, suspended for two years, ordered him to pay £180 in costs, and prohibited him from owning any animals for a decade, until April 2026.
