TRACY DAVIS AND ANDREW WARD FROM BRADFORD AND TONG FACE JUSTICE OVER DOG NEGLECT

In a case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare authorities, Tracy Michelle Davis and Andrew Ward, both residents of Bradford, have been held accountable for their role in the severe neglect of a dog found in a dire state on the streets of Tong. Davis, born on March 6, 1974, and formerly residing in Beeston, Leeds, was at the time of sentencing living at Melcombe Walk, Bradford BD4 9HE. Her son, Andrew Ward, born on May 7, 1995, most recently lived on Hartland Road, Bradford BD4 0DZ.

Both individuals pleaded guilty to charges of causing unnecessary suffering to a dog by neglecting its basic health needs. The dog, a Saluki-type named Lady, was discovered wandering the streets in September 2013, in an appalling condition that shocked those who encountered her. She was emaciated, nearly bald due to a chronic skin condition, and covered in crusty sores. A member of the public who found Lady described her as being in a critical state, with RSPCA officials stating she was close to death at the time.

Prosecutor Mr. Andrew Davidson, representing the RSPCA, emphasized the severity of Lady’s condition, stating, “It is no exaggeration to say she was close to death.” The RSPCA’s chief inspector, Heidi Jenner, provided further details, revealing that Lady weighed just 11 kilograms when she should have been between 20 and 30 kilograms. Her skin was crusty, cracking, and covered in sores, indicating a prolonged period of neglect and untreated health issues.

Despite the grave circumstances, Lady was given the necessary veterinary care and made a full recovery. She was subsequently rehomed to a caring family, a testament to the resilience of the dog and the efforts of animal welfare organizations.

In sentencing, Tracy Davis received a 12-month community order and was ordered to pay £250 in costs. Andrew Ward was also sentenced to a 12-month community order, but in addition, he was required to complete 120 hours of unpaid work. Both individuals are permanently banned from keeping dogs until April 2029, a ban that will last for 15 years. The court’s decision aims to serve as a deterrent to prevent similar cases of neglect in the future and to reinforce the importance of responsible pet ownership in the Bradford and Tong areas.