Warning, graphic content. Luton man jailed for animal cruelty

A couple from Luton have been given prison sentences and disqualified from keeping all animals for 10 years after they allowed one of their dogs to attack the other so badly, that he died as a result of the injuries.

Lisa Dolor aged 34 and Dwain Warrington 35, both of Hardwick Green, Luton, appeared at Luton Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Thursday 25 June) after previously pleading guilty to charges under the Animal Welfare Act, in a case brought by the RSPCA.

Warrington admitted causing unnecessary suffering to Tyson, a young male black mastiff, by housing him in circumstances which allowed him to be attacked by another dog, known to be dog-aggressive. As well as the ban, he was sentenced to 16 week custodial sentence.

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Dolor admitted not meeting the needs of Tyson, by allowing him to be kept in circumstances where he was attacked by another dog, and so not protecting him from pain, injury and suffering. As well as the ban, she was given a 16 prison sentence, suspended for a year, and made to do 150 hours unpaid work.

Tyson’s injuries were so bad that the vet said there was nothing they could do to save him, and he had to be put to sleep. At the owner’s request the other dog, a bull terrier type dog, was also put to sleep.

The RSPCA, Luton Borough Council Dog Wardens and Police visited the same address in April 2014, when another young mastiff cross had also been attacked by the owners’ fellow dog, and had also died as a result.

RSPCA inspector Stephanie Law said: “It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure their animals are safe at all times, and are not at risk.

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“Yet Tyson had neglectfully been left in danger, despite previous warnings and advice given by us, and local dog wardens from Luton Borough Council, to keep the dogs apart when unsupervised.

“On its own this would have been a tragic accident, but this was the second time we have been called to this address and the second time a dog has been killed. We have to make sure this doesn’t happen again.

“Failing to protect an animal from harm from other animals is a serious issue, and we are pleased this has been reflected by the courts. We are also really grateful to the local wardens for all their work and support on this issue, which has been invaluable.”