RUDY AND LEANNA DEAR FROM DERWENTHORPE FACE JUSTICE OVER CRUELTY TO LHASA APSO

In a case that has shocked the local community of Derwenthorpe, Rudy Dear, born 3 November 1978, and his wife Leanna Dear, born 7 December 1980, both residents of St Aelreds Mews, were found guilty of neglecting their pet dog, a Lhasa Apso named Lady, in such a severe manner that her health was critically compromised.

Lady was discovered by a visiting council officer in a dire state, with severe eye ulcers and infected eyelids that were visibly weeping pus. The condition of her eyes was so bad that her fur had become matted to her face due to the discharge, and she was infested with fleas and lice, indicating a prolonged period of neglect and poor hygiene.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of animal welfare workers, Lady was rescued from her suffering and received the necessary medical treatment to recover from her injuries. After a period of care and rehabilitation, she was successfully rehomed into a loving environment, far from the neglect she endured at her previous home.

The owners, Rudy and Leanna Dear, who are believed to have connections to the travelling community, admitted to failing in their duty to care for Lady and causing her unnecessary suffering. During the court proceedings, they explained that a family bereavement had left Lady in the care of Mr Dear, who, they claimed, did not provide the proper level of attention and care that the dog required.

In sentencing, the court imposed penalties on both individuals. Rudy Dear was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service and pay an £85 court surcharge. Leanna Dear received a fine of £120 along with a £30 court surcharge. Additionally, both were required to pay £500 in prosecution costs. As part of the punishment, they were also banned from owning or keeping any animals for a period of ten years.

This case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences faced by those who neglect their pets. Rudy Dear is known to run a business called RD Tree Services, but his involvement in this case has brought significant scrutiny and condemnation from the local authorities and animal rights advocates.