25 January 2024 , 09:17
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A cruel owner found guilty of neglecting her dog to the point it collapsed and had to be euthanised claimed she "loved her animals to bits" as she wept in court.
Michelle Joplin, 51, caused unnecessary suffering to her bully type dog, Daisy, with a vet finding the animal was seriously unwell, in a state of collapse. Her right side was also "sodden with urine, and skin inflamed and sore". Her nails were also overgrown, she was suffering from hair loss, and every time attempts were made to move her, she became aggressive. The vet said it was a sign of being in agony.
Joplin, formerly of Ganney's Meadow Road, Birkenhead, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal by failing to address signs of ill health. Appearing at Wirral Magistrates Court today, January 24, she said: "When this happened I was in a really bad place. I don't even recognise the person I was then. I never thought I would get to that place I was in. I feel ashamed and I'm so guilty for what has happened to my dog.
"I love my animals to bits and what happened with the dog is just unforgiveable. I don't know who to apologise to because I'll never forgive myself for what's happened." When informed by the magistrates that she would be banned from owning dogs, She said: "I don't think I deserve to replace my dog with another animal, to be honest. I fully agree with that. I accept that."
Peter Mitchell, representing the RSPCA, said it was clear Daisy had been collapsed "for an extended period" when she was finally seen by a vet. He said: "(Joplin) went on to accept the dog had collapsed and she didn't seek help. She had a number of issues at the time and she was drinking and overtaking medication." Unfortunately, Daisy had to be euthanised. Two other dogs, also owned by Joplin, were rehomed.
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Joplin, now of Marina Road West, Morecambe, was sentenced to an 18-month community order, a six-month alcohol treatment requirement, 10 rehabilitation days, and 150 hours of unpaid work. She was also banned from keeping dogs for five years, reports the ECHO.