A Leicester woman denied the RSPCA access to her sick dog, leading to tragic outcomes and legal action against her for animal neglect
Leicester: A woman named Kimberley Watts made headlines after refusing to let the RSPCA take her sick dog, Suzy, to the vet. This wasn’t her first run-in with animal welfare; her family had previous issues with the RSPCA, which made her hesitant to cooperate.
Last February, RSPCA inspectors visited her home but were denied entry. They saw Suzy through the door and noticed she looked really thin and weak. When the inspector tried to help, Watts slammed the door shut.
Concerned for Suzy’s health, the RSPCA returned the next day with police and a warrant. This time, they managed to seize the dog. Sadly, after being taken in, Suzy’s condition worsened, and she had to be put down shortly after.
In court, it came out that Watts had been struggling financially and had a drinking problem. She had a history of animal cruelty, including a previous conviction that banned her from owning cats. This past made her even more reluctant to let the RSPCA help.
Watts admitted that Suzy needed medical attention but claimed the dog wouldn’t leave the yard. She also mentioned that they had intended to take her to the vet but just couldn’t afford it at the time.
Watts faced charges of animal neglect, and her mother, who had shared care responsibilities for Suzy, had passed away a few months prior. The court was urged to consider banning Watts from having pets in the future.
Her lawyer argued that Watts had good intentions but struggled with her own issues, including learning difficulties and depression. Ultimately, she received an 18-month community order, a six-month alcohol treatment program, and a five-year ban on pet ownership.
