Carmarthen man sentenced for dog cruelty after dog left tied to tree

David Allen Murphy of Carmarthen was sentenced at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on 24 July 2024 after pleading guilty to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act for causing unnecessary suffering to a Collie‑cross German Shepherd called Cora. The dog had been found tied to a tree with severe skin disease, hair loss and multiple masses. Murphy received an 18‑week custodial sentence suspended for 18 months, a 10‑year ban on keeping animals, 120 hours of unpaid work, 25 rehabilitation activity days, £600 in costs and a £150 victim surcharge.

RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben testified that police rescued Cora on 27 December 2023 and that a veterinary assessment described chronic dermatitis, intense itching and extensive skin damage. The vet noted that the condition had likely caused prolonged physical and mental suffering. Following sentencing, the RSPCA emphasized that every animal deserves proper care and that neglect constitutes a criminal offence.