Kent couple disqualified from keeping animals after neglecting pet terrier

RSPCA inspectors found poor Frances in faeces-filled kennel and wild birds kept in cages at the Kent property

A couple from Whitstable have been disqualified from keeping animals for life after their terrier type dog was found living in appalling conditions.

The RSPCA prosecuted the Kent couple after issuing a warrant on January 17 (2017 )for illegally trapping and keeping wild birds. At the property they found wild birds and set traps in the shed as well as the small dog, Frances, living outside in filthy and freezing conditions.

David William Lee (D.O.B 01/02/1966), and Lydia Ann Lee (D.O.B 18/07/1963) both of The Oaks, Radfall Ride, Whitstable, were charged with causing unnecessary suffering to the brown and white female terrier by failing to investigate and address the cause of her poor body condition and weight loss. They were also charged with keeping Frances in a filthy faeces contaminated kennel which had a sodden carpet and no bedding or dry lying place. She was also tethered by a chain which was embedded in faeces and mud on the floor which restricted her movement, contrary to Section 4(1) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Mr Lee was also charged with possession of live wild birds, 12 Goldfinches and a Redpoll, as well as committing an offence of intentionally taking wild birds and possessing traps, all contrary to the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981.

They appeared at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 30. RSPCA Inspector Carroll Lamport was one of the inspectors on the scene in January when they arrived at the property following an investigation of wild bird trapping and keeping.

He said: “It was a very upsetting scene. Whilst there I found the little dog frozen to the floor of the kennel as the chain was frozen fast. This was a very nasty case of a deliberate act of long term cruelty as the trapping of birds is a planned act, and this was coupled with the long term neglect of the pitiful little dog that I found in filthy, wet and frozen conditions.

“It was a very upsetting and unnecessary case of deliberate, planned and callous cruelty.”

Mrs Lee was sentenced to 12 weeks in custody, suspended for two years, and a 12-week curfew. She was also ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £115 victim surcharge.

Mr Lee was sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for two years, and an 18-week curfew. He was also ordered to pay £750 in costs and a £115 victim surcharge.

They were also both disqualified from keeping animals for life. Thankfully Frances the terrier managed to pull through after suffering from mange and malnourishment and was later rehomed to her forever home.

If you see witness anything or are suspicious someone who may be mistreating or neglecting animals please call

0300 1234 999 or visit www.rspca.org.uk