NICHOLAS JOHNSTON SENTENCED IN CROYDON FOR ANIMAL ABUSE CASE INVOLVING XL BULLY DOG

Nicholas W Johnston, born around 1964 and residing at 153 Norbury Avenue, Thornton Heath CR7 8AP, was convicted of neglecting his dog, Raynor, an XL bully, which was found in a severely emaciated state with infected, cropped ears.

Raynor was ultimately euthanized after she was discovered in unbearable pain and distress. The dog had been taken to a PDSA clinic in February 2024 in a critical condition. The veterinary team at the PDSA first examined Raynor in June 2023, diagnosing an infection that caused her ears to become thickened and inflamed. Johnston was prescribed steroid medication, but he failed to attend the follow-up appointment scheduled the following month and did not return for eight months.

By the time she was re-examined, Raynor’s health had so worsened that euthanasia was considered the most humane option. RSPCA officer Yalina Blumer, who attended the clinic, described Raynor’s condition, saying, “The dead dog’s ribs and spine were clearly visible, and her cropped ears looked very inflamed.” The dog’s body condition score was assessed at just 2 out of 9, indicating she was severely underweight.

A court statement from a PDSA veterinarian revealed that Johnston initially brought Raynor in on June 23, 2023, reporting ongoing ear issues for about six months. The vet confirmed the ears had been cropped, an illegal practice in the UK. During that visit, the vet prescribed steroids and antibiotics. Johnston had inquired about surgery to remove her ear canals but was told this procedure was too risky.

The vet also noted, “During this appointment, the owner raised a concern that he felt Raynor was losing weight, so he was prescribed further steroid treatment for 30 days and advised to have a recheck in three weeks, but the owner did not arrange nor attend any further appointments until February 2024.” It was also revealed that Johnston could not clearly explain what he fed Raynor, merely stating that “neighbours would sometimes throw food over the fence into his garden for the dog to eat.”

Examination of Raynor showed long-term damage to her ear canals, which had narrowed significantly with thickened tissue, to the extent that an otoscope could not be used for inspection. The vet concluded, “I am of the belief that Raynor undoubtedly suffered for a period of at least three months as the defendant failed to take reasonable steps to ensure she had a suitable diet and failed to protect her from pain, suffering, and disease.”

In court, mitigation arguments highlighted Johnston’s personal struggles with housing and mental health issues, and his remorse for his neglect. It was also stated that he was not responsible for the illegal cropping of the ears.

Inspector Yalina Blumer emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, saying, “Pets are completely reliant on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy. Owning an animal is a privilege – and ensuring appropriate veterinary care when they need it is a key part of the responsibility we have towards them.”

The court sentenced Johnston to an eight-week prison term, suspended for 12 months. He was also given a four-week curfew and 15 days of rehabilitation, along with a ban from owning animals for 10 years, until March 2035.