A man has received a suspended prison sentence and been banned from keeping animals for life after dumping a dog on Fochriw mountain roadside in August last year.
Paul James, of Arrael View, Abertillery, pleaded guilty to three Animal Welfare Act offences at Cwmbran Magistrates’ Court on Monday April 24, including failing to meet the needs of an animal.
James, 55, also admitted causing the dog unnecessary suffering by failing to provide veterinary care and attention.
The white German Shepherd, named Max, was found wrapped in carpet on the mountainside on August 12, 2016, in a critical state. He had a severly infected right ear, and was unable to stand. Despite the best efforts of vets, he was euthanised on welfare grounds.
James was given an 18-week custodial sentence for each offence, suspended for 12 months and to run concurrently. In addition to being banned from keeping any animals for the rest of his life, he was also told to pay £400 costs, and a £115 victim surcharge.
Annie Simmonds, RSPCA inspector, said: “This poor German Shepherd dog was dumped from a vehicle, and was in urgent need of veterinary treatment.
“It’s shocking to think someone could abandon a helpless animal, concealed in a piece of carpet, on the side of the road, in this way.
“Sadly, the failure to responsibly care for Max caused him to suffer unnecessarily.
“Importantly, this case highlights the serious legal implications of dumping an animal in this way.
“It was heartbreaking that in this dog’s moment of need, instead of companionship and compassion, his owner chose to dump him like this, to die alone and suffering.”