A Cardiff woman has received a court sentence for committing acts of animal cruelty by leaving her dog and cat alone in her malodorous residence, resulting in starvation. Chloe Britton has been prohibited from owning animals for three years following revelations in court about the neglected and emaciated state of her pets, who resorted to consuming feces for sustenance.
RSPCA inspector Emma Smith discovered a dachshund named Woody and a cat named Ginge in severely undernourished conditions during separate visits to Britton’s home in January and March of this year. Reports of unattended animals led to the involvement of the animal welfare organization, despite Britton’s claim that she periodically visited the property while residing elsewhere.
During the inspection in January, Woody and another dog, Hugo, were found in the conservatory, with Woody being in a severely emaciated state compared to Hugo. Inspector Smith described Woody’s condition as skeletal, with visible bones and thinning fur, while Hugo was observed eating feces, indicating hunger and lack of adequate care.
Following Britton’s admission of neglect and relinquishment of the animals to the RSPCA, a vet examination revealed that Woody and Ginge were severely malnourished, scoring one out of nine on the body condition scale, far below a healthy weight level. Britton pleaded guilty to offenses under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and appeared in court for sentencing.
Despite claims of learning difficulties and health issues, Britton was handed a three-year animal ownership disqualification, a 12-month community order with rehabilitation activities, a fine, and additional court costs and surcharge. Woody and Ginge, after receiving care from the RSPCA, have shown significant recovery and have been rehomed to loving families, with plans in place for Ginge’s new placement.
Inspector Smith expressed gratitude for public vigilance in reporting such cases of animal suffering, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention to prevent further harm to vulnerable animals.
