ZOE SMALL FROM ST BUDEAUX SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO PREGNANT DOG IN PLYMOUTH

Zoe Small, a resident of Tamerton Avenue in St Budeaux, Plymouth, has been found guilty of serious animal welfare violations involving a pregnant springer spaniel named Bella. Born on April 21, 1992, Small, who also operates as a make-up artist under the name Make-up by Zoe Small, was convicted after an investigation by the RSPCA revealed her neglect and mistreatment of the dog.

According to court records, Small admitted to two offences related to animal cruelty. The investigation uncovered that Bella was subjected to extreme neglect, including starvation and living in deplorable conditions. The RSPCA's efforts culminated in a court hearing at South and West Devon Magistrates’ Court, where the judge initially ordered the destruction of Bella and her puppies, citing the severe suffering they had endured. However, this decision was later overturned following an appeal by the RSPCA solicitor, and now all the dogs involved are scheduled to be rehomed.

Small, who runs a dog breeding business with her husband Daniel Small—specializing in French bulldogs—was also found to have failed in her responsibilities to care for Bella properly. Specifically, she did not adequately investigate or address the causes of Bella’s significant weight loss. Furthermore, she neglected to provide a suitable environment for the pregnant dog, leaving her in conditions that were both damp and unsuitable for a pregnant animal.

Following Small’s conviction, the RSPCA released distressing images depicting the living conditions Bella was kept in. These images showed a rundown stable environment at Blackdown Meadows, near Kingsbridge, where Bella was housed. Inspector Jim Farr, who led the investigation, recounted his findings after visiting the premises with police and a veterinarian. Bella was admitted to a veterinary surgery in the evening, suffering from severe malnutrition and lethargy, prompting an emergency caesarean section.

Inspector Farr described the conditions in detail: “We made our way to the stable block which comprises four individual stables. The immediate area to some of the entrances was flooded. There was also an assortment of discarded items, including tools and a small motorbike. The second stable from the left was where Bella was kept until her removal the day before. The interior was very damp, with a floor covered in sodden earth and old shavings, and scattered faeces. In one corner, there was a small, damp, cloth bedding area that would have been too small for Bella and her pups if she had given birth there. The rest of the stable offered no dry space for her to give birth on a clean surface. An empty bowl was present, but no water was visible, and dog food was scattered on the floor near the stable door, seemingly thrown in carelessly. The stable measured approximately 12 feet by 12 feet, with a bedding area roughly 4 feet by 3 feet, and about 2 feet 6 inches deep.”

As part of her sentencing, Zoe Small received a penalty of 200 hours of unpaid community work, along with a requirement to participate in 20 days of rehabilitation activities. She was also ordered to pay costs totaling £364, including £250 in court fees and £114 to fund victim services. Additionally, she was banned from owning or keeping a dog for eight years, a restriction that will expire in July 2031.

Further evidence of Small and her husband Daniel’s involvement in backyard breeding was presented through social media screenshots, which demonstrated their prolific breeding activities. The case highlights ongoing concerns about illegal and irresponsible dog breeding practices in the area, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare enforcement and public awareness.