BRISTOL WOMAN NICOLE LOUISE COOPER ABANDONS DOGS IN MESSY FLAT

In a heartbreaking case that has shocked the local community in Bristol, Nicole Louise Cooper, a resident of Molesworth Close, Withywood, was found to have callously abandoned her two dogs, Bruno and Aniyla, inside her flat without any regard for their well-being. Cooper had owned the dogs for three years, during which time they were used for breeding purposes.

On December 13, 2024, police officers responded to a welfare check at her residence after concerns were raised about the animals' welfare. Upon entering the vacant property, officers made a disturbing discovery: the remains of the two dogs, which had been left to decay in deplorable conditions.

RSPCA Inspector Dan Hatfield provided a detailed account of the scene, describing the cramped and squalid environment. He explained that the flat was a small bedsit measuring approximately 10 feet by 15 feet. Inside, alongside the bed, was a cage measuring roughly 2 feet high and 3 feet long, which contained the body of Bruno. The dog was found lying on his side, with no eyes remaining, and was covered in insects. The inspector noted that Bruno's body was adhered to the matting within the cage, indicating a prolonged period of neglect. The cage was only suitable for short-term confinement, perhaps an hour or two, but not for extended periods.

The second dog, Aniyla, was discovered dead outside the cage, also in a state of advanced decay. Both animals appeared emaciated, with overgrown claws, suggesting they had been neglected for some time. An examination by a veterinarian confirmed that the dogs likely succumbed to dehydration and starvation, which ultimately caused organ failure. The veterinarian described their deaths as 'a very inhumane way to die,' highlighting the severity of the neglect involved.

Following her arrest, Cooper faced prosecution by the RSPCA and pleaded guilty in court to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Her sentencing included a one-year custodial sentence, which was suspended for two years, along with five days of rehabilitation. She was also ordered to pay £587 towards costs and a victim surcharge. Furthermore, Cooper received an indefinite ban from owning animals, although she retains the right to appeal this restriction after 15 years.

This case has brought to light the tragic consequences of animal neglect and the importance of animal welfare enforcement in Bristol and beyond.