A poor dog was so badly looked after that she was put in a nappy so she didn’t make a mess.
Ella was discovered at her owner’s home, where her bones could be seen protruding through her skin, too.
The tan crossbreed was left in a nappy, secured with hair ties, for eight months, and caused painful sores.
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Owners, Darren Humphries and Wendy Dow, have now been sentenced after pleading guilty to offences under the Animal Welfare Act.
The 47-year-old and 45-year-old claimed the dog had been wearing the nappy since August 2024 due to incontinence.
The shock revelation was made after welfare concerns were raised for Ella.
An investigation was launched by the RSPCA after Animal Rescue Officer, Freya Norton, and Inspector, Beth Fazackerley, visited the home on Morris Street, Oldham.
The inspection took place on 21 March, as reported by Need To Know.
The dog was taken from the property to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital with the owner’s consent, where she scored a one out of nine on the body condition test.
The shocking assessment exposed that Ella had severe dental disease, cataracts, a heart murmur, overgrown nails, pressure sores and clinical signs of diabetes mellitus.
Heartbreakingly, euthanasia was the kindest option, with the poor animal put to sleep the same day.
Following a prosecution by the RSPCA, Humphries and Dow appeared at Tameside Magistrates’ Court on 21 November.
Due to failing to take care of Ella, both were slapped with 12-month community orders, 12 rehab activity requirement days, 60 hours of unpaid work and a £200 fine.
Ms Fazackerley said: “I stroked Ella as she lay down and was shocked at how easily I could feel the dips between each rib as my hand ran over her rib cage.
“Ella was in an extremely fragile state when we attended the property.
“Her condition was severe, she was very underweight, and her symptoms would have been evident for some time.
“While nothing can change the sad outcome for her, this case highlights the importance of seeking veterinary attention at the earliest signs of ill health.
“Pet owners have a legal and moral responsibility to act when their animals show signs of distress or decline.”
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