A woman from New Zealand has been sentenced to two months in prison after being found guilty of severely neglecting her dog, Nuggi, through excessive feeding. The case highlights the serious consequences of animal cruelty and neglect. According to the NZ Herald, Nuggi’s distressing condition came to light in October 2021, when officers from the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) intervened.
At the time of his rescue, Nuggi weighed a staggering 53.7 kg, a weight that severely strained his legs and hindered his ability to move. He was found so overweight that he needed to pause three times to catch his breath while struggling just 10 meters to reach the rescue vehicle. Veterinarians reported that Nuggi had accumulated a dangerous amount of fat beneath his skin, making it difficult to detect his heartbeat during an initial examination. He was also suffering from conjunctivitis and sores on his elbows and abdomen, conditions likely resulting from his inability to move comfortably due to his extreme weight.
The SPCA revealed that Nuggi’s owner had been feeding him excessively, serving him eight to ten pieces of chicken daily along with numerous doggy biscuits. This extreme overfeeding led to Nuggi’s significant weight gain, making it almost impossible for him to walk and causing him considerable suffering.
“Nuggi was being drastically overfed and, instead of seeking help or amending the behavior, his owner continued to overfeed him until he could barely walk. This is unacceptable,” said an SPCA official. “He was so enormous that he could hardly walk and he was clearly suffering as a result of the significant amount of weight he was carrying.”
After spending two months in the SPCA’s care, during which he lost 8.9 kg, Nuggi’s health took a turn for the worse. He died abruptly from a hemorrhage caused by a liver tumor. Subsequent examinations revealed additional health issues, including liver disease and Cushing’s disease, which likely contributed to his deteriorating condition.
The woman’s sentencing to two months in prison underscores the severity of the case and serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for prompt intervention in cases of animal neglect. The tragic case of Nuggi highlights the need for vigilance and compassion in the care of pets to ensure their health and well-being.
In other news – ZIFA appoints Michael Nees new Warriors head coach
In a significant move for Zimbabwean football, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has appointed Michael Nees as the new head coach of the Warriors. Nees, a seasoned German international, brings a wealth of experience to the role, which he will assume with immediate effect. At 57 years old, Nees has an extensive background in international football.
His most recent position was with the Kosovo Football Association, where he served as the technical director and head coach of the U-21 men’s team. This role marked his second stint in the Balkans, having previously managed Rwanda and Seychelles in Africa. Read More
