In a distressing case that highlights the severe consequences of neglect, Anthony Collingwood, 26, and Chantelle Lyly Fitzpatrick, 29, appeared in court after admitting to multiple charges related to animal cruelty. Previously residing at Coal Clough Lane in Burnley, the couple now lives at Egerton Court in Barrow. Their appearance at Barrow-in-Furness Magistrates’ Court followed a guilty plea entered at a prior hearing, where they faced serious allegations of causing unnecessary suffering to their dog named Patch and failing to meet the needs of three other dogs.
The troubling details of this case came to light when RSPCA officers began receiving reports in August 2022 concerning the conditions in which the dogs were being kept. Following these reports, RSPCA officials visited the couple’s property multiple times and were met with alarming conditions that painted a grim picture of neglect. According to Animal Rescue Officer Kelly Nix, the interior of the residence was filthy, and one small tan dog appeared to be in a state of distress.
In her witness statement, Officer Nix recounted her harrowing experience: “The conditions inside looked dirty, and the small tan dog appeared very distressed.” The sight of the dogs was heart-wrenching; one small terrier was observed attempting to bite through the letterbox in a frantic bid for food. Officer Nix noted that she could see the ribs, spine, and hips of the tan dog, whose skull appeared sunken, suggesting severe malnutrition and neglect. The dog was also covered in fresh scars and had live fleas crawling on its body.
The situation for the other dogs was similarly concerning. A female lurcher named Luna was described as being in normal condition but suffering from fur loss around her rear and infested with fleas. The couple’s small terrier, named Star, was particularly alarming; neighbors informed rescuers that Star had never been seen outside the house or even in the garden, further indicating the extent of neglect and isolation the dogs were enduring.
Rescue efforts were fraught with challenges, as Officer Nix and her team struggled to coax Luna out of the house. The lurcher was extremely frightened, necessitating the use of food as bait to lure her from her hiding place. Officer Nix recalled, “She became so stressed in the environment that she tried to bite at Inspector Taylor numerous times and also bit Patch.” The rescue team faced significant obstacles due to the overwhelming amount of rubbish littering the floor, making it difficult to navigate the premises safely.
Upon entering the property, the rescuers were immediately hit with a nauseating stench of urine and feces. The sheer scale of the filth was shocking; the floor was entirely obscured by garbage, with broken glass crunching underfoot. As they moved through the kitchen, they noted the presence of empty chewed cans and food cartons scattered about, further underscoring the lack of care and provision for the animals. There was no evidence of food or water bowls, and the absence of basic necessities was alarming.
Moreover, the state of the house raised significant safety concerns for the dogs. There were tablets left carelessly on the floors and tables, and an open electricity box near the front door posed a serious hazard, with exposed wiring that could have easily been reached by the dogs. The condition of the property indicated a complete disregard for the welfare of the animals.
During a follow-up visit on August 22, RSPCA inspector Lyndsey Taylor returned to the property and noticed that one of the dogs appeared “very weak, lethargic and reluctant to get up,” although his tail was still wagging—a sign that he was not entirely beyond help. The distressing conditions led to all three dogs being taken to the RSPCA Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for urgent veterinary care. Upon examination, Patch was placed on a drip and treated for several serious issues, including an ear infection, flea infestation, and wounds that required medical attention.
In an unexpected twist, the couple later contacted the RSPCA, expressing a desire to have their dogs returned to them. Fitzpatrick claimed that they had moved to a new property a few weeks prior and were in the process of relocating the dogs. However, their circumstances became more complex as they explained in court that they had been forced out of their previous home due to threats and intimidation from drug dealers, a situation that undoubtedly complicated their ability to care for their animals.
During the court proceedings, Fitzpatrick expressed regret for her actions and emphasized her love for the dogs. She mentioned having faced health issues, which she believed contributed to their dire circumstances. Despite their explanations and apparent remorse, the court took the matter seriously given the severity of the neglect.
As a result of their guilty pleas, Collingwood and Fitzpatrick were each handed a 12-month community order that included 10 rehabilitation activity requirement days, which aimed to help them understand their responsibilities as pet owners and prevent such neglect in the future. They were also fined £120 each, in addition to being ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £134 each.
The outcome of this case did not end with the couple’s sentencing. The three dogs—Patch, Luna, and Star—were rescued from their harrowing situation and underwent rehabilitation. With the dedicated efforts of RSPCA staff, the dogs received the medical care they so desperately needed and gradually began to recover from the physical and emotional trauma they had endured. Ultimately, all three dogs were rehomed, providing them with a second chance at a loving and safe environment.
This case serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the critical need for vigilance in ensuring the well-being of animals. The RSPCA and other animal welfare organizations continue to play a vital role in rescuing animals from neglect and abuse, highlighting the importance of community awareness and reporting suspected cases of animal cruelty. The successful rehabilitation of Patch, Luna, and Star showcases the resilience of animals and the positive impact that dedicated rescue efforts can have on their lives.
As society grapples with issues of animal welfare, cases like this one underscore the urgent need for education on proper pet care and the consequences of neglect. It is imperative for individuals to understand the commitment involved in caring for animals and to be aware of the signs of distress or suffering in pets. By fostering a culture of compassion and responsibility towards animals, communities can work together to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The journey of Patch, Luna, and Star is not just a story of recovery; it is a testament to the strength of advocacy for animal rights and the power of collective action in the face of neglect and abuse. Their rehabilitation not only brings joy to their new families but also serves as an inspiring example of hope and resilience, reminding us all of the importance of kindness towards animals and the duty we have to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.