Ruby the 14-month-old whippet was rescued from an abusive home with blunt force trauma injuries so severe that she had to have one of her legs amputated. Police said the injuries were comparable to the impact of a road traffic collision.
Now Ruby has been given a new start at life after being rehomed by Northumbria Police employee Beatrice Beaton, who felt sorry for her and knew she could provide a loving home.
Beatrice's decision to adopt
Beatrice, who previously rehomed a dog from Northumbria Police, said: "I just thought it was a horrible thing to do to a dog. I felt really sorry for her because dogs are so innocent and are as soft as anything. I just thought how could anyone do that to a dog? I thought we could give her a loving home."
Beatrice has grown up with dogs all her life and said it didn't take long to convince her family to adopt Ruby, who was rehomed just before the last May Bank Holiday.
"I spoke to my mam about Ruby, and left the photo of her to try and plant the seed. My mam was adamant we weren't getting another dog, but she was asking about Ruby every night and she eventually gave in," said Beatrice.
Settling in with the family
Ruby has settled in well with Beatrice and her family, including their other dog Barney. Beatrice said Ruby is full of energy, always wanting to play and is the complete opposite to Barney.
She added: "Ruby always wants to play with Barney, and I've seen more of a playful side of him. He definitely does seem happy having another dog there. Ruby is absolutely fantastic."
Investigation and outcome
Constable Jessica Buffham, who led the investigation into Ruby’s abuse, said the injuries suffered by Ruby could only have been caused by blunt force trauma likened to the impact of a road traffic collision. The suspect admitted causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and agreed to sign Ruby over to Northumbria Police.
They received a conditional caution and were sent on a victim awareness pathway. They were also issued a Community Protection Warning with conditions which included preventing the ownership of any animal for a 12-month period subject to review.
PC Buffham said: "The investigation was an extremely emotive one to deal with being a devout animal lover myself. It started in a place of unthinkable cruelty which no animal should have to endure, however, seeing Ruby thrive from a life of suffering into to a safe, loving environment with Beatrice is the highest reward I could ask for as an officer."
