SHARON LUNN OF NEWTON AYCLOCKE SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT IN 2019

Sharon Lunn, born around 1975 and residing on Biscop Crescent in Newton Aycliffe, failed to seek treatment for her elderly dog’s severe health issues, including dental disease, cataracts, and a large tumour.

RSPCA inspectors responded to a call from a concerned member of the public and visited Lunn’s home, where they found her 14-year-old dog, Max, in a dirty condition with a large swollen lump on his testicle.

Prosecutor Kevin Campbell explained: “The dog was removed from the house and taken to the vets, who confirmed Max had cataracts, severe dental disease affecting both sides of his mouth—including upper and lower jaws—and a large swelling on his testicle.

“He states that the dog would have been suffering due to neglect. Additionally, Max had suppressed bone marrow, anaemia, and fleas at that time, requiring the removal of 21 teeth.

“The veterinarian stated that the dog would have been in pain because of the level of dental suffering.

“Such symptoms would have been noticeable to any reasonable dog owner.

“The vet also said the symptoms would have been visible for at least six months.

“They concluded that the individual responsible for Max was not fit to care for animals.

“It’s acknowledged by the RSPCA that this was not a deliberate act to cause suffering but was the result of long-term neglect.”

A probation report revealed that Lunn was deeply distressed about the circumstances. The report noted: “She lives alone, has been out of work for several years, and is currently unable to start employment due to her emotional health. She is also prescribed methadone.

“During her early 20s, she developed a cocaine addiction following a serious operation, which later progressed to heroin use. There have been periods when she was unable to leave her house.

“Lunn admits she knew she should have taken her dog for medical treatment, but she believed Max appeared happy and active.

“She expressed devastation over what happened, stating that the dog was the only remaining thing in her life. She deeply regrets her actions and is haunted by the animal’s suffering.”

Lunn pleaded guilty to three charges of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal between August 2018 and August 2019.

The court sentenced her to a 12-month community order, during which she must complete 15 rehabilitation activity days. Additionally, she was ordered to pay £235 in costs and charges and was banned from keeping animals for five years, with the ban set to expire in December 2024.