SUSAN PACE AND MARIAN SMITH CRUELTY CASE IN TAMWORTH: PUPPIES SUFFER AND DIE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Tamworth, two women, Susan Pace and Marian Hazel Smith, both residents of Browning Close, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to three puppies under their care. The incident, which spanned over a period of approximately five months, involved severe neglect and failure to provide proper care, ultimately leading to the tragic deaths of two of the puppies and serious health issues for the third.

According to court proceedings, Susan Pace, born around 1953, and Marian Hazel Smith, born circa 1966, were responsible for the welfare of three female puppies: Tilly, Daisy, and Mini. The court heard that these animals were subjected to neglectful conditions, which resulted in their developing mysterious and severe illnesses. The puppies, all of which were of different breeds—Tilly and Daisy being West Highland terrier-types and Mini a Jack Russell—began exhibiting troubling symptoms that prompted veterinary intervention.

Over the course of their illness, the puppies experienced recurrent episodes of ulceration affecting their mouths, tongues, and eyes. The veterinarian who treated them noted that these symptoms were consistent with exposure to caustic or corrosive substances, such as harsh detergents or disinfectants. The case detailed that Daisy, at just 10 weeks old, developed ulceration of her mouth and tongue, along with inflammation of her nose, which was suspected to be caused by toxicity, bacteria, virus, or possibly electrocution. Despite initial recovery, Daisy’s condition worsened again, raising concerns about her environment and the potential hazards she was exposed to.

Mini, also at 10 weeks, showed signs of conjunctivitis and ulceration of the mouth, similar to Daisy’s earlier symptoms. Veterinary assessments suspected contact with alkaline disinfectants. Mini’s condition initially improved, but she later suffered from episodes of eye ulceration and swelling around her muzzle, with new ulcerations developing again in November 2020. The veterinarian concluded that Mini had been repeatedly exposed to harmful substances, which exacerbated her suffering.

The court heard that the medical records indicated a failure on the part of Pace and Smith to meet the basic needs of the puppies, including protecting them from disease and harmful substances. Although veterinary care was sought promptly on each occasion, the repeated episodes of illness pointed to neglect and inadequate supervision. The veterinarian emphasized that the suffering inflicted on the puppies was a direct consequence of the caregivers’ failure to safeguard their health.

Further evidence was provided by RSPCA inspector Herchy Boal, who visited the veterinary hospital where Mini was being treated in November 2020. Inspector Boal also conducted a subsequent visit to Pace and Smith’s residence, accompanied by police officers. During this visit, the inspector advised the women that all their animals, including a female Cavachon, a Yorkshire terrier, two budgerigars, a rabbit pair, four guinea pigs, and a hamster, would be removed from the property for their welfare. These animals, now in RSPCA care, are expected to be rehomed once they recover and are deemed fit for adoption.

Mini, who has since been placed with a foster family, has made a full recovery and is now available for rehoming. The case has highlighted the importance of animal welfare and the role of the public and authorities in safeguarding vulnerable animals. Inspector Boal expressed gratitude to the veterinary professionals for raising concerns, emphasizing that the RSPCA relies heavily on community reports to identify and address cases of neglect.

In sentencing, both Pace and Smith received an 18-month conditional discharge, along with orders to pay £1,422 in costs and charges. Additionally, they were disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of four years, a ban that will last until May 2026. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and the importance of responsible pet ownership in Tamworth and beyond.