TRACY WRIGHT AND MEGAN WELLS FROM MARLBOROUGH CONVICTED FOR CRUELTY TO ELDERLY JACK RUSSELL

In a distressing case of animal neglect, Tracy Wright and her daughter Megan Louise Wells, both residents of Five Styles Road in Marlborough, faced justice after being convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to their elderly pet dog. The incident, which drew the attention of the RSPCA, involved the suffering of a 13-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named Tilly, who was left in a state of severe neglect for over a year.

According to reports, the RSPCA launched an investigation after concerns were raised about Tilly’s health. When inspectors arrived, they found the dog suffering from itchy scabs and significant hair loss on her front legs, neck, and face. The condition of the dog was so dire that her skin was raw and inflamed, indicating prolonged neglect and a lack of proper veterinary care. Fortunately, Tilly has since recovered from her physical ailments, but she will require ongoing medication for the rest of her life to manage her health.

Both Wright and Wells appeared before Swindon Magistrates’ Court on July 24, 2018, where they admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to Tilly. Their admission highlighted their awareness of the dog's condition and their failure to seek appropriate medical attention. The court heard that the neglect was compounded by the fact that the dog’s suffering was prolonged, with her condition worsening over an extended period.

RSPCA inspector Sharon Crisp expressed her disappointment and sadness over the case. She stated, “This was a frustrating and saddening case, that could have been easily avoided if poor Tilly was given the care she deserved. Those who own animals have a responsibility to look after them and ensure health conditions are dealt with promptly by a vet to avoid their pets suffering. It is never acceptable to just ignore an animal in need.”

Inspector Crisp further described the transformation in Tilly’s demeanor after she received proper care. “Tilly’s a lovely, friendly old dog who was left without the help she desperately needed for a prolonged period of time. Her skin was so bad when I arrived it was shocking to see her. She was clearly incredibly uncomfortable with raw skin on her stomach, neck, and face. It was only when I saw her again once her skin was better and her fur was growing back that I realized how depressed and miserable she had been when she was rescued too. She was wagging her tail and happy—a totally different dog.”

In mitigation, the court was informed that Wright and Wells were facing personal difficulties, including health and financial issues, which may have contributed to their neglect. However, the court emphasized that such circumstances do not excuse the suffering inflicted upon Tilly.

The court sentenced Tracy Wright and Megan Wells to a 12-month community order, which includes a ten-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. They were also ordered to pay an £85 victim surcharge. Additionally, they received a five-year ban from owning animals, which will expire in August 2023. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the legal consequences of neglecting vulnerable animals in Marlborough and beyond.