A dog named Tiny, a female Dogue de Bordeaux, suffered in pain and died after her owner, Christine Hogan, failed to seek veterinary treatment for a cancerous growth. The untreated tumor caused Tiny significant distress for approximately six months, as reported by a veterinarian.

Christine Hogan, 41, from Manchester Road, has been banned from keeping animals for five years following prosecution by the RSPCA. The prosecution arose after inspectors discovered an open wound and rotting flesh on Tiny's body at a pets' crematorium in Manchester.

Upon examination, a veterinarian determined that Tiny had likely gone without necessary treatment for up to six months, ultimately leading to her chronic pain before death.

Hogan pleaded guilty at Manchester Magistrates' Court to causing unnecessary suffering by neglecting her pet’s veterinary care.

On January 14, during her sentencing, Hogan received a 12-month community order, which includes ten Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days, a fine of £120, and a victim surcharge of £114.

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RSPCA Inspector Ryan King visited the crematorium on January 26 last year, noting a significant area on Tiny's back that was devoid of fur, resembling an open wound, with a strong odor of infection. He observed that Tiny appeared underweight, with her ribs and spine visible.

When Inspector King visited Hogan's home, she admitted that Tiny had cancer. The inspector informed her that she might have committed offenses and that a voluntary interview would be required.

Despite this, Hogan delayed the interview for four months, citing various reasons, leading the officer to proceed without her statement.

According to a veterinarian's report, Hogan was initially informed of the seriousness of Tiny's condition six months before her death, during which she received antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicine.

The vet had warned Hogan that Tiny's condition could be cancerous, posing risks such as pain, sepsis, and internal damage if untreated. After receiving a two-week supply of medication, Hogan neglected to attend the scheduled follow-up appointment, ignoring subsequent calls from the veterinary practice.

The report presented to the magistrates indicated that Tiny likely experienced weakness and debilitation due to a severe lack of energy, severely affecting her daily activities, including her ability to eat and play.

The veterinarian concluded that Hogan's neglect to seek veterinary treatment or follow medical advice ultimately resulted in Tiny's suffering and death, with her pain persisting from July 2023 to January 2024. The pain was chronic and reportedly increased significantly in the weeks leading up to her death.

Following the sentencing, RSPCA Inspector King expressed sorrow over the case, stating: “This is a very sad case. Tiny would have been in terrible pain over a long period of time. No animal deserves that. Her suffering emphasizes how essential it is for pet owners to seek veterinary advice immediately if their pet shows signs of illness.”

He urged the public to report any signs of animal suffering to the RSPCA, highlighting the importance of community vigilance in preventing such neglect.