RSPCA Somerset prosecutes woman over puppy beating

Shelby has since been rehomed, the RSPCA said

A woman who beat a puppy with a riding crop has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years.

Milly Beth Turnham was filmed throwing the dog called Shelby into a room, before carrying out what the RSPCA described as a "prolonged attack".

Turnham's partner filmed the attack at their home in Bridgwater, Somerset, and uploaded it to Facebook.

Vet Dr David Martin said Shelby "clearly suffered extreme fear and distress".

Warning - this story contains details and a picture of animal abuse which readers may find distressing.

The tri-coloured collie was six months old at the time of the attack, on 1 April 2022.

When the footage was seen by the RSPCA, Turnham, 23, was investigated and prosecuted.

Dr Martin said: "The video shows an extreme level of violence.

"In addition to the physical suffering the dog has clearly suffered extreme fear and distress as a result of being thrown and beaten and this will have long-term implications for the dog's health and welfare."

Turnham, who admitted an animal welfare offence relating to the attack on Shelby, also admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a second dog, a husky called Joker, which was left severely malnourished when she failed to provide adequate nutrition.

Footage of Turnham beating the dog was uploaded to Facebook

Turnham appeared at Highbury Magistrates' Court on 13 October after the case was moved from Taunton Magistrates', as Shelby now lives in Ponders End in Enfield, London.

Alongside the 10-year disqualification order, which she can not appeal to be lifted for five years, Turnham was handed a 16-week prison term, suspended for one year, and 20 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.

The RSPCA said Joker was rehomed prior to the charity getting involved, and Shelby had "since found a happy new home".