A 36-year-old woman has been banned from owning dogs for seven years following the discovery of her neglect of 13 dogs, including a litter of 10 puppies, at her home in Doncaster.
Gemma Bermingham, who pleaded guilty to violating the Animal Welfare Act, was sentenced at Doncaster Magistrates’ Court on November 20. The court heard that the dogs had been left in appalling conditions at her property on Bernard Road in Edlington. The RSPCA reported that the animals were deprived of basic needs such as food, water, exercise, and proper shelter.
Among the animals found was Luna, a three-year-old female Malinois, who had recently given birth to the puppies. A veterinary examination revealed that Luna was severely malnourished, with a body condition score of 0.5 out of 5, indicating she had little to no body fat. Her coat was dry, stained with urine, and she showed signs of previous injuries. The vet also noted her “ravenous” appetite, reflecting her poor health.
The puppies, some of which were as young as three weeks old, were found huddled in a filthy corner of the room, surrounded by a “foul odour of faeces and grease,” according to RSPCA Inspector Vanessa Reid. Another Malinois dog found at the property was described as “anorexic,” with prominent rib and pelvic bones, while a bully dog named Rocco was discovered confined in a cage with poor coat condition.
Bermingham, who cited personal and financial challenges as contributing factors to her neglect, was also given a 12-month community order, including 70 hours of unpaid work and 10 Rehabilitation Requirement Days. She was ordered to pay £400 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge.
RSPCA spokespersons emphasized that dog owners have a responsibility to ensure the well-being of their pets and to seek help when their circumstances change. The 13 dogs have since been rehomed and are receiving care.
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