RODNEY BLAKE OF YELVERTON SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG WITH ROTTEN WOUNDS

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Rodney Blake, a resident of Yelverton, was found guilty of failing to provide necessary veterinary care for his dog, Blackie. The incident came to light after a concerned neighbor discovered the elderly border collie in a severely neglected state in March 2022.

Blackie was found with open, rotting wounds that had been left untreated for over a month. The neighbor, who came across the dog, immediately expressed grave concerns about her welfare. He described the scene, stating that he could smell a very strong odor of rotten flesh emanating from the dog. Upon closer inspection, he observed that Blackie’s fur was heavily matted, tangled, and knotted, obscuring the extent of her injuries.

The neighbor recounted that Blackie’s underbelly and sides were ripped open, exposing raw flesh. The dog was in a dire condition, with claws that measured approximately two to three inches long, indicating neglect over an extended period. Recognizing her inability to walk due to her injuries, the neighbor decided that the humane course of action was to transport her to a nearby stable using a wheelbarrow, as carrying her directly would have caused further pain and suffering.

Blackie was then taken to a veterinary clinic by Blake, who agreed to have her euthanized to end her suffering. The veterinarian expressed serious concerns, revealing that Blackie had been left to endure a prolonged period of pain and neglect. The dog was suffering from a widespread necrotic and ulcerated tumor in her abdomen, which had gone untreated for weeks.

Following the investigation, RSPCA Inspector Claire Ryder emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership. She stated, “Our plea to all animal owners is to make sure they always receive care and treatment from veterinary experts when they need it. 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 is a key part of the responsibility we have towards our pets. It’s so sad that, in this instance, that responsibility was not met and Blackie suffered as a result.”

Rodney Blake, born around 1958 and residing at 3 Bedford Place, Yelverton, was prosecuted for his neglectful actions. He admitted to leaving Blackie untreated from February 6, 2022, until March 8, 2022. Blake has since appealed the court’s decision to disqualify him from owning dogs in the future.

In sentencing, Blake received a 12-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £250 and a victim surcharge of £128. Additionally, he was banned from owning dogs for a period of ten years, reflecting the severity of his neglect and the importance of safeguarding animal welfare in the community.