RSPCA inspector discovered Dachshund cross Shiloh in ‘dreadful state’ with 70 per cent fur loss
A DOG owner has been banned from keeping animals for life after his pet was found collapsed and suffering with extensive fur loss and inflamed skin.
CHRIS LEE BUFTON, aged 43, of Fernhill, Mountain Ash, appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (June 4), where he pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act relating to his eight-year-old Dachshund cross, Shiloh.
The court heard that Bufton failed to investigate and treat a serious skin disease and left Shiloh without proper care for dry eye and a heavy flea infestation. A veterinary statement described her condition as one of prolonged and obvious suffering, saying that “every blink would have been sore” due to end-stage dry eye and the complete absence of tear production.
Shiloh’s body was almost entirely bald, except for a small area around her neck and chest. Her skin was severely thickened, reddened, and crusted, and her remaining fur harboured an infestation of fleas. The vet confirmed that such deterioration would have taken months.
Bufton was sentenced to 16 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, for causing unnecessary suffering. A concurrent eight-week suspended sentence was issued for the second offence of failing to meet Shiloh’s basic needs. He was also given a 10-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and a 12-month Mental Health Treatment Requirement. In addition, he was ordered to pay £500 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge.
RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector GEMMA COOPER attended the Fernhill property on Monday, September 23, 2024, following a call from a concerned member of the public. “She was collapsed, unable to stand, and had approximately 70 per cent fur loss, uncovering thick, red, inflamed skin,” she said. “She looked in a dreadful state and my heart really felt for her.”
Shiloh was surrendered to the RSPCA and taken to their Merthyr Tydfil Veterinary Clinic. Due to the extent of her suffering, vets made the difficult decision to put her to sleep to prevent further pain.
The vet concluded that any responsible owner would have sought treatment long before Shiloh’s condition became so severe, stating: “In my professional opinion, her owner has failed in their duty of care, leaving her suffering unnecessarily for a prolonged period.”
Speaking after the sentencing, DCI Cooper said: “This is a very upsetting case. Shiloh was clearly neglected and suffered immensely. We urge anyone struggling to care for their pets to please seek help. There is support out there. Sadly, for Shiloh, it came too late.”
