Sheffield woman who left cats and dogs to starve banned from owning animals for 10 years
Concerns were first raised about the animals last October, after reports they'd been left for over a week without food or water.
A Sheffield woman who left her cats and dogs to starve has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years.
Shelby Russel, 29, of Lupton Road, was also handed a fine and a 20 day rehabilitation order at Sheffield Magistrates' Court yesterday.
Concerns were first raised about the animals last October, after reports they'd been left for over a week without food or water.
Russel claimed to RSPCA officers that she had been in hospital, that she had paid a dog sitter and had left a tap running for the animals.
When inspectors started to catch and seize the animals Russel became aggressive and was ultimately arrested.
A vet found the animals were extremely underweight. They are now in a much better condition than when they were first found.
Sergeant Matt Duffy, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Animals deserve to be cared for and loved.
“Leaving them defenceless, locked in cages to starve and dehydrate is disgusting behaviour.
“I am pleased today that Russel has been banned from owning any animals for 10 years for the pain and suffering she inflicted on these poor animals.
“We will not tolerate animal cruelty within South Yorkshire and will work with our partners to ensure those responsible are put before the courts.
“Thankfully this investigation had a happy ending, and the animals were making good progress with their care within the RSPCA.
“If you have concerns about an animal in your community, report it.”