Man guilty after dogs found in poor conditions

A man has been found guilty after 15 German shepherd dogs were rescued from what the council described as "appalling" conditions.

Terence Snooks, 63, of Shepard Close, Eastwood in Essex, has been convicted of 15 animal welfare offences following an investigation by Southend-on-Sea City Council.

Environmental health officers said it was one of the worst cases of animal neglect and some of the worst living conditions they had encountered in more than 30 years.

"The welfare concerns identified were extremely serious," said Irene Ferguson, the Labour cabinet member for housing and preventing homelessness.

"Swift joint action ensured the dogs were removed from those conditions and placed in safety."

On 1 September, Snooks was convicted at Basildon Magistrates' Court of 15 separate offences under Section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

A council spokesperson said most of the dogs had been safely rehomed or had been put on the route to recovery.

But three dogs had been so severely affected by their treatment that they could not be rehabilitated and were euthanised.

Residents had complained about persistent dog barking and conditions at a property in Eastwood, and environmental health officers started investigating in February last year.

Dogs were found living in appalling conditions, the council said, without enough food or fresh water.

They did not have proper places to sleep or walk and the property was overflowing with dog faeces and urine and contained hazards that posed risks to the animals.

They were found covered in excrement, with matted fur and overgrown claws, while several were underweight and showing signs of long-term neglect, the council added.

Many of the dogs had not been adequately trained, socialised or exercised, leaving them unable to be safely handled, the council continued.

Snooks is due to be sentenced at Basildon Magistrates' Court on 8 December 2026. He has been remanded on bail until then.

Nicola Drake of Essex Police said: "The welfare concerns identified were extremely serious, and swift joint action ensured the dogs were removed from those conditions and placed in safety."

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