Lowestoft pair banned from keeping animals for 10 years after ‘heartbreaking’ dachshund’s death

A pair have been banned from keeping animals for 10 years after their dog had to be put down because of the “heartbreaking” state he was in.

Duggy the miniature dachshund was taken to vets in Suffolk by a concerned relative in December 2023.

The RSPCA said Duggy was in a barely conscious state, with low blood pressure and he was hypothermic. He was also in an emaciated condition with his ribs and pelvic bones showing under his skin.

At the time, the vet said Duggy would have suffered as a consequence of his emaciated condition and it was decided there was nothing that could be done to save him.

Kelly Utting, 37, and Daniel Kilty, 42, both from Magnolia Court, Lowestoft, failed to attend Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court to hear the case.

In their absence they were both found guilty of failing to ensure that the needs of Duggy were met.

They were both were disqualified from keeping all animals for 10 years and each fined £1,100, ordered to pay £1,081 in costs and a victim surcharge of £440.

RSPCA inspector Emily Astillberry said: “When I started the investigation I was sent photos and a video of poor Duggy and he was one of the thinnest dogs that I have ever seen.

“Every rib and vertebra is clearly prominent and his hips and pelvic bones are protruding beneath his skin.

“It was heartbreaking to see a dog in such an emaciated condition and this weight loss would not have occurred overnight.

“He had suffered by the failure of his owners to seek veterinary attention to find out what had been causing his weight loss and it would have been clear to any responsible owner that he needed veterinary assistance.”

The disqualification order means any animals still at the address will have to be rehomed or signed over to the RSPCA or they will be seized by the police.