Dorset Woman Banned From Keeping Animals

10 April 2014, 07:37 | Updated: 10 April 2014, 07:38

Emma Potter from Blandford Forum was disqualified from keeping all animals for 10 years at Weymouth Magistrates' Court on Monday (7 April).

The 43 year old, from Hopsfield, Milburn St Andrew, was also ordered to pay £350 in costs after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Max, Flirty Berty and Percy and failing to meet their welfare needs.
 
The three shorthaired cats were found in September 2013 at the defendant's address. They had been left shut in the property which was filthy and all three were skinny, with Flirty Berty also having an ear problem which had not been treated.
 
They were removed after one of the cats ran out of the house when a workman arrived. The RSPCA had previously tried to contact the owner to offer help but calls had not been returned.
 
RSPCA inspector Jo Story said: "This house was filthy and the cats had just been left without their needs being met. You are not providing adequate care for your pets if you just leave them alone for long periods of time with a small amount of food and just a dripping tap for water.
 
"Help is always available for people who don't think they can cope with caring for their pets and the best thing is to ask for it rather than leaving a situation to deteriorate like this.  
 
"It is worrying to think what would have happened if access had not been gained to the house and the cats removed."
 
Flirty Berty, who was renamed Sunset, sadly later had to be put to sleep after she failed to respond to treatment.  However, eight-year-old Max, who is now called Devon, has been reserved by a new owner.  
 
Percy, also aged eight-years-old, is still looking for a new owner. Anyone interested in rehoming him or another rescued animal should contact the RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre on 0300 123 0749 (closed on Mondays).
 
To help the RSPCA, text HELP to 78866 now to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one standard network rate message)