PAUL WILDE FROM ORMESBY CONVICTED OVER HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN MIDDLESBROUGH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Paul Wilde, a resident of Ormesby, was found guilty of severe animal neglect involving his elderly Staffy, named Poppy. Wilde, born on January 1, 1983, and residing at Alderwood Close in Ormesby, Middlesbrough, was responsible for leaving his dog in deplorable conditions within his bungalow, which was described as being overwhelmed with filth, rubbish, and neglect.

On November 9, 2023, RSPCA Inspector Clare Wilson responded to reports of an unattended dog at Wilde’s property. Upon arrival, she was met with a scene of utter chaos and squalor. Neighbors informed her that Wilde had been hospitalized, leaving the bungalow unlocked and accessible for anyone to enter and tend to the dog. The inspector’s detailed report painted a grim picture of the living environment, noting that the floors were covered in feces and urine, with flies and maggots swarming over a takeaway container in the living room. The property was littered with hundreds of empty lager cans, especially concentrated in the main living area, and there was a pervasive, foul smell emanating from the premises.

Inside the house, Poppy was discovered in a state of neglect. She exhibited signs of long-term health issues, including overgrown claws, staining around her eyes, and a foul-smelling discharge from both ears, which appeared infected and caused her to pull away when touched. The inspector observed that there was no food or water available for the dog, with only a dirty mop bucket filled with a brown liquid that was unsuitable for consumption. The environment was so unhygienic that the inspector had to avoid stepping on the filth.

Concerned for the dog’s welfare, Inspector Wilson called the police to assist in removing Poppy from the premises. She was subsequently placed into the care of an RSPCA fosterer, where she received immediate veterinary attention. The vet diagnosed her with a chronic ear infection, dental disease, and irritated eyes. Poppy was prescribed medication, and her treatment involved flushing out her ear canals and extracting several teeth. Her condition highlighted the extent of her neglect and the urgent need for medical intervention.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Wilde’s case served as a wake-up call for him. He had acknowledged his alcohol addiction and had taken steps to seek help, successfully completing rehabilitation and remaining sober. Despite his efforts, the court emphasized the severity of his neglect towards Poppy.

Tragically, after nearly a year of care in a loving foster home, Poppy developed mammary tumors and other age-related health issues. The veterinary team made the difficult decision to euthanize her to prevent further suffering. Wilde pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which led to his conviction.

Inspector Wilson expressed her relief that Poppy was able to enjoy a period of comfort before her passing. She stated, “Poppy was an elderly dog who needed extra special care in her twilight years, but she was living in a disgusting environment that wasn’t fit for humans or animals and her health issues hadn’t been addressed. I’m so glad she was signed over and got to enjoy life in a loving and comfortable foster home while we waited for this case to conclude.”

As part of the court’s sentence, Wilde received a lifetime ban on keeping any animals, ensuring that he would not be able to subject any other creature to such neglect in the future. The case has once again highlighted the importance of animal welfare and the ongoing efforts of the RSPCA to protect vulnerable animals in Middlesbrough and beyond.