A man has been jailed for four months after 41 animals were found in terrible conditions at his home.
The shocking discovery was made by the RSPCA when they were called to Stacy Humphrys’ property in April earlier this year, following reports of an underweight whippet.
Horrified inspector, Jason Finch, became alarmed at the number of animals he saw and their conditions.
He said: “It was extremely disturbing to see so many animals living in such terrible conditions.
“Some of the dogs, particularly those with long coats, were also filthy with faeces, some dogs had fur loss, and live fleas could be seen on many of the dogs.”
This comes after the RSPCA and other organisations had tried to work with Mr Humphrys, from West Meadows, Ipswich, in the past in a bid to help him improve the welfare of his animals.
Mr Finch contacted the police, a vet and other RSPCA officers for assistance and they proceeded round the property.
He said: “More and more dogs were found in runs that were too small and all were filthy with faeces, and had little or no water.
“Two dogs which were extremely thin, nervous, and covered in faeces frantically drank a bowl dry when they were given fresh water at the vets.”
Stacy Humphrys, 32, pleaded guilty to seven offences under the animal welfare act.
Four offences were for causing unnecessary suffering to a filly pony and seven dogs, while the other three offences were for failing to meet the welfare needs of 17 dogs, 23 poultry and the pony.
Mr Humphrys has also received an indefinite ban from keeping animals, with a condition of not being able to apply for the disqualification to be removed for five years.
He was ordered to pay costs of £874 and a victim surcharge of £115.
In mitigation the defendant said he had been dealing with personal issues.
All the animals taken from the property were signed over by the defendant and have made a good recovery with many already in loving new homes.