A couple from Lowestoft has been banned from owning animals for a decade following the death of their miniature dachshund, Duggy, who suffered from severe neglect.
Duggy was found in an appalling condition that shocked RSPCA inspectors and veterinary staff. In December 2023, a concerned relative rushed the tiny dog to a Suffolk veterinary clinic where he was discovered to be barely conscious, hypothermic, and emaciated, with his ribs, spine, and pelvic bones painfully visible beneath his skin.
Veterinarians declared Duggy beyond recovery and made the difficult decision to euthanise him to end his suffering. Investigations revealed that Duggy had endured prolonged pain and extreme weight loss over an extended period due to neglect by his owners.
The owners, Kelly Utting, 37, and Daniel Kilty, 42, of Magnolia Court, Lowestoft, did not attend their hearing at Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court. They were found guilty of failing to ensure Duggy’s welfare and were subsequently banned from keeping all animals for 10 years. Additionally, they were each fined £1,100, ordered to pay £1,081 in legal costs, and hit with a £440 victim surcharge.
RSPCA inspector Emily Astillberry, who led the investigation, described Duggy as “one of the thinnest dogs I’ve ever seen.” She said, “Every rib and vertebra was clearly prominent, and his hips and pelvic bones were protruding beneath his skin.” She added, “This weight loss wouldn’t have happened overnight. Duggy suffered for a long time because the owners failed to seek urgent veterinary care.”
The court’s disqualification order means any animals still at the couple’s home must be rehomed or handed over to the RSPCA. If this does not happen, the police will seize the animals.
This tragic case has sparked renewed calls for tougher punishments for pet neglect and greater awareness about the importance of timely veterinary care to prevent animal suffering.
Originally published by UKNIP.
