A Barnsley man has been banned from keeping animals for life after neglecting his injured German Shepherd, a court heard.

Sheldon Moore, of Harold Avenue, Barnsley, was sentenced at Barnsley Magistrates’ Court after admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to his dog, Belle, by failing to ensure she received critical veterinary care for a broken leg.

The court was told Moore repeatedly missed six scheduled veterinary appointments over the course of a month, appointments that were essential for Belle’s radiography and bandage changes to treat her fractured tibia. Despite the severity of the injury, Moore failed to provide the necessary care or pain relief, leaving Belle in unnecessary distress.

RSPCA officers investigating the case reported that Moore was uncooperative, swearing at officers, missing interviews, and initially refusing to surrender Belle into their care.

Moore pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006: causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide appropriate veterinary care, and failing to meet Belle’s needs, including providing a suitable diet and pain management.

At sentencing on April 3, Moore received an eight-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months for the first offence, and a four-week sentence suspended for 12 months for the second, to run concurrently.

In addition to the lifetime ban on keeping animals, Moore was ordered to complete eight Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, pay £200 in costs, and a £154 victim surcharge.

An RSPCA spokesperson welcomed the ban, stating:
“Animals are completely reliant on their owners to meet their needs, and when this trust is broken, the consequences can be tragic. We are pleased that the court recognised the seriousness of this case.

Belle is now recovering under the care of the RSPCA.