SHADALLE MOYNES BURNS HORRIFICALLY ABUSES PUPPY IN HASTINGS - BANNED FROM KEEPING PETS FOR 20 YEARS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Hastings, a woman named Shadelle Moynes-Burns has been handed a severe ban from owning or caring for any animals for a minimum of two decades. The conviction follows her admitted involvement in the brutal mistreatment of a young puppy named Teddy, whose injuries prompted immediate concern and intervention from animal welfare authorities.

Shadelle Moynes-Burns, whose residence is on Gladstone Terrace in Hastings, pleaded guilty to three separate offences under the Animal Welfare Act. The case was prosecuted by the RSPCA after they received reports and concerns about the welfare of her puppy, Teddy, which led to a detailed investigation. The RSPCA’s intervention was prompted by the discovery of Teddy in a state of severe physical distress, with injuries that were far beyond what could be explained by accidental causes.

The investigation revealed that Teddy, a small crossbreed dog, had been brought to a veterinary clinic in December 2021 with multiple injuries, including numerous rib fractures and injuries to his paws and tail. Prior to this, Teddy had been examined several times between October and December 2021, with each visit reportedly related to separate incidents, such as falling from a bed and choking on a stick. However, the severity of his injuries at the final visit raised serious questions about their origin.

On December 31, 2021, Teddy was brought into the vet with visible fluid-filled lumps covering his body. An x-ray examination uncovered 11 fractured ribs and multiple other injuries consistent with repeated blunt force trauma. The vet also identified fractures to Teddy’s front paws, injuries that suggested he had been hit with an object, which also affected his ability to use his hind legs properly. The vet expressed that such injuries were unlikely to have resulted from accidental falls or choking incidents, and the presence of haematomas and rib fractures strongly indicated ongoing abuse.

Despite the severity of Teddy’s injuries, the veterinarian initially considered euthanasia but ultimately decided that, with proper medical care and rehabilitation, Teddy could have a chance at recovery. The RSPCA took responsibility for his ongoing care, and Teddy was subsequently rehomed to a new family. The veterinary team reported that Teddy is now making good progress, with his front legs functioning normally and his hind legs healing well. Remarkably, despite his traumatic past, Teddy remains a friendly, trusting, and happy dog, bringing joy to those caring for him.

Shadelle Moynes-Burns, aged 31, was sentenced to nine months in prison, though this sentence was suspended for 18 months. She was also ordered to complete 25 days of rehabilitation activities. The judge overseeing the case made it clear that Moynes-Burns would no longer be permitted to keep animals, stating, “The keeping of animals will no longer be a part of your life. You can apply in 20 years but the chances of it being lifted are zero.”

In a statement, the RSPCA expressed relief and hope for Teddy’s future, emphasizing his resilience and the importance of community vigilance. The charity’s inspector Zoe Ballard, who led the investigation, remarked, “This is a very special little dog who has had an unimaginable start to life. His rescue was made possible by all those who bravely spoke and cared for him. He has touched the hearts of everyone he has encountered throughout his journey.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty some animals endure and the ongoing efforts of authorities and charities to protect vulnerable creatures in Hastings and beyond.