Unpaid work for couple who severely neglected their dog

David Massey, 62, and Marjorie Massey, 60, of High Road in Beeston, appeared before Bedford Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (February 8).

They had previously admitted causing unnecessary suffering to their dog, Woody, by failing to provide veterinary care regarding various conditions affecting the animal’s eyes, ears and mouth and causing unnecessary suffering by failing to adequately groom his coat.

They were given a 22 week prison sentence, suspended for two years. They have also been ordered to carry out 250 hours worth of unpaid work.

The couple have been disqualified from keeping animals for life and they have been ordered to pay £619 in costs.

They will only have to serve the prison sentence if they fail to comply with the court’s other requirements or commit another offence within two years.