A poor pooch, with an eye tumour that grew bigger than his HEAD, had to be put down after his owner refused to take him to the vet.
Gary Fisher caused unnecessary suffering to 11-year-old Golden Retriever, Bodie.
The dog had a large ulcerated eye mass for two-and-a-half years.
But the 61-year-old didn’t keep taking him to the vets to get it treated between 22 May 2022, and 30 October 2024.
He didn’t want to pay the £1,600 bill for CT scans.
The defendant said he thought the “vets were just out to make money” from him.
Fisher, of Westfield Grove, Barnton, near Northwich, Cheshire, admitted the Animal Welfare Act offence.
RSPCA Inspector, Nadine Pengilly, said in her written statement: “When Mr Fisher brought Bodie to the front door, I was really shocked by the size and condition of the mass above his right eye.
“The skin had totally split open, and a large tumour mass was exposed to the elements.
“The mass was bleeding in places and was dripping blood with thick, dark blood clots.
“There was hair and dead skin embedded in the mass. The mass was bigger than my clenched fist.”
She added: “He said he didn’t think Bodie was in any pain as he was still eating and drinking and wagging his tail.”
He was taken to the vets and had to be put down.
In mitigation, the court heard that Fisher had been remorseful and there was no malicious intent, as reported on Need To Know.
He was sentenced to eight weeks’ custody, suspended for 12 months.
Fisher was also ordered to do 100 hours of unpaid work at Warrington Magistrates’ Court.
He was banned from keeping all animals for five years.
The dog owner was ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge and £400 for costs.
Following sentencing, investigating officer, RSPCA Inspector, Anthony Joynes, said: “This is a very upsetting and distressing case.
“Bodie was clearly neglected and suffered for a prolonged period of time.
“There is never an excuse for failing to provide veterinary care.
“We urge pet owners who are struggling, including with bills, to please seek help.”
Animal lovers slammed Fisher’s actions.
Emma Wynn fumed: “How can you just sit and watch your dog in that much pain is beyond me.”
Natasha McKenzie added: “Hope karma catches up with him, that poor dog.”
Patricia Doughty said: “Disgusting.”
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