A former trustee of a UK llama charity has been handed a suspended prison sentence after a disturbing case of animal neglect was uncovered at a farm in Surrey.
Candia Midworth, 61, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to multiple animals, including llamas and alpacas, at the charity's premises. The shocking conditions were discovered following an investigation and a veterinary inspection.
The investigation, led by the RSPCA, revealed a catalogue of serious welfare issues:
- Llamas and alpacas were found with severely overgrown teeth, making it difficult and painful for them to eat.
- Animals were living in cramped and filthy conditions, surrounded by excessive amounts of their own waste.
- One animal was discovered in such a poor state that it had to be put down to end its suffering.
Midworth appeared at Guildford Magistrates' Court where she pleaded guilty to the charges. In addition to a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, she was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. The court also banned her from keeping animals for a period of five years.
An RSPCA inspector involved in the case described the findings as some of the worst cases of dental neglect they had ever encountered in the species. The charity has since taken steps to rehome the remaining animals to ensure their well-being.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and moral responsibilities held by those in charge of animal welfare charities.
