Two men accused of causing unecessary suffering to 144 dogs have been given suspended jail terms by magistrates.

The dogs were discovered on a farm last April by RSPCA inspectors, who found the diseased animals following a tip-off.

More than 30 had to be destroyed, while the remainder were placed with a number of animal shelters. Dog owner Paul Brown from Redcar, and farm worker Marc Young, from Bishop Middleham, were each handed an eight week jail sentence, suspended for 12-months.

Teesside Magistrates' Court heard that the collie cross-breeds, lurcher-types and terriers, were found to be suffering from a variety of ailments and injuries when they were found in outbuildings, outdoor pens and in the back of vehicles at the farm. Brown, of Lawton Road, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering and neglect.

Problems

Most were reported to be suffering as a result of lack of adequate diet, whilst many had skin conditions and dental problems

Young claimed that he had been unable to cope with the workload he was frequently given at the farm, but was still convicted of 11 animal welfare offences. As well as suspended prison sentences, they were both ordered to carry out 100 hours of community service and pay £260 costs.

Brown was also banned from keeping dogs for 10 years. Young was banned from keeping dogs for five years.

The court also heard that inspectors had found a number of dog carcases burning on the day they visited the farm.

Sentencing Brown, Judge Simon Hickey said: ‘This was prolonged neglect. You knew exactly what you were doing’. He told Young: ‘You went to work with your eyes open. I do not accept you were only doing what you were told.’

Following the hearing RSPCA inspector Lucy Hoehne said: ‘These dogs had suffered tremendously. One of them had a fractured leg which had been left untreated. Many others had infected wounds due to in-fighting. Most were suffering as a result of lack of adequate diet and many had skin conditions and dental problems. The sheer number of dogs had clearly got out of hand and their welfare was seriously compromised as a result.’

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