Dogs found in 'appalling conditions' in 'one of worst cases of neglect' seen in 30 years

More than a dozen dogs have been rescued in Southend-on-Sea, in the worst case of neglect the council has seen in 30 years.

The 15 German Shepherds were found in "appalling conditions" without proper access to food, water or exercise.

Members of Southend-on-Sea City Council's Animal Welfare team were called to a property in the Eastwood area in February 2025, after receiving a noise complaint from a neighbour.

The council's welfare officers said the dogs were found without proper access to food, water or exercise. Credit: Southend-on-Sea City Council

The dogs were discovered without a suitable living space and officers described them as showing signs of "serious long-term neglect."

Three of the dogs were too severely affected to be rehabilitated so had to be put to sleep.

The council said most of the animals have been successfully rehomed.

In September 2026, the dogs' previous owner Mr Snooks was found guilty of animal neglect.

He will be sentenced on December 8.

Five of the dogs were taken to a rehabilitation centre. Credit: Southend-on-Sea City Council

A spokesperson for Southend-on-Sea City Council said: "This case saw officers from our animal welfare team work alongside partner agencies to rescue 15 dogs.

"Their dedication, professionalism and compassion helped give these dogs a second chance while securing justice through the courts."

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