Understand
Springer spaniel rescued from squalor in Doncaster learns to trust again in Lichfield
Overview
A springer spaniel named Sprite, rescued by the RSPCA from a severely squalid home in Doncaster alongside 83 other dogs, is rehabilitating with new owners in Lichfield, Staffordshire. Her owners described her initial timidity and lingering distress from her past conditions. Meanwhile, three members of the same family have been convicted of animal welfare offences and are awaiting sentencing in December.
Key points
- Sprite, a springer spaniel, was rescued by RSPCA officers in April from a home in Doncaster containing 84 dogs, two cats, and a chicken.
- RSPCA officers described the rural cottage as one of the worst cases of animal squalor they had encountered.
- New owners Sue and Jason Kairies adopted Sprite in Lichfield, using patience, understanding, and a cat flap to help her build confidence.
- Sprite showed visible distress when exposed to footage of the conditions she was rescued from.
- David Parkes was found guilty of failing to ensure animal welfare, following earlier guilty pleas by his wife Delphine and son Sam; all three face sentencing on 9 December.