In a shocking case of animal neglect, a 68-year-old man from Doncaster has been banned from keeping animals for ten years after seven dogs were discovered living in appalling conditions inside vans without proper food, water, or ventilation.
The Incident
On 23 July 2024, Humberside Police found five German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois–type dogs crammed into small, faeces-filled crates in a red van parked near the M62 and Tom Pudding Way in Goole, East Yorkshire. The animals were severely dehydrated, with no access to water, and unable to reach food scattered on the van floor. Despite two small windows being open, the van had inadequate ventilation.
Upon further investigation, officers discovered another German Shepherd confined in a nearby green van under similar conditions. The following day, the man admitted there was yet another dog housed in a separate compartment in the same vehicle.
Court Ruling
The owner, identified as Ian Welbourn, admitted to three offences under the Animal Welfare Act. At Sheffield Crown Court, he was sentenced to a 20-week prison term, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community service. He has also been banned from keeping animals for the next decade.
The sentencing judge noted that, given the “substantial level of pain” suffered by the dogs, it was clear Welbourn was “not competent to keep animals.”
Tragic Outcome for the Dogs
The dogs were taken into RSPCA care and assessed by vets, who found them in poor condition with visible ribs, hips, and little to no body fat. One dog, named Elle, was missing her tail. Welbourn admitted he had been advised to seek immediate surgery for her or consider euthanasia the year before but claimed he could not afford the treatment.
Sadly, six of the seven dogs had to be put to sleep due to their deteriorated health. Only one managed to recover and has since been successfully rehomed by the RSPCA.
Wider Concerns
The RSPCA has once again urged the public to report suspected cases of neglect or illegal animal keeping. A spokesperson stressed: “Animals deserve proper care, food, water, and safe shelter. Cases like this highlight the devastating consequences when these basic needs are ignored.”
Authorities also revealed that Welbourn had been living temporarily in one of the vans after a dispute with his landlord. Though he claimed the vehicles were fitted with air conditioning, it was found to be non-functional.
A Reminder for Animal Welfare
This disturbing case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for vigilance in reporting neglect. For the dogs involved, it is a tragic example of suffering that could have been prevented, while for Welbourn, it marks the end of his ability to keep animals for the next ten years.
