Cruel couple face jail over sheep dog which became trapped in a ball of its own matted hair

A couple are facing jail after admitted the "appalling" neglect of a sheep dog which became trapped in a twenty-eight pound ball of its own hair. David, 62, and Marjorie Massey, 60, admitted two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to five-year-old sheep dog Floyd.


Photo from SWNS.

Animal cruelty officers admitted the level of cruelty he suffered was "incomprehensible" — and the pair said they left it so long because they were too embarrassed to go to a vet. Their pride meant they felt too ashamed to take him for treatment despite his mangy coat, painful 2in toe-nails, chronic eye and ear infections and an untreated tumour in his mouth.


Photo from SWNS.

Floyd was dumped at an animal shelter where carers cut his mound of filthy hair, which made it almost impossible for him to see, hear or go to the toilet. Bedford Magistrates' Court heard it had taken four workers more than an hour to free Floyd from his tangled cocoon and underneath his body was covered in cysts and sores. Despite his efforts the animal, renamed by carers, was so distressed vets were forced put him down.


Photo from SWNS.

Magistrates warned the Masseys, from Beeston, Beds, that they faced being thrown behind bars for their cruelty. Chair of the bench Dr Disney-Durrant said: "Because of the length of abuse in this case I have to warn you we will be considering a custodial sentence." The case was adjourned for sentencing until February 8.