A woman from Weston-super-Mare has been banned from keeping animals for seven years following the RSPCA’s discovery of severely neglected dogs and a snake at her home. Michelle Marie Steer, 44, of Walliscote Grove Road, pleaded guilty to three animal welfare offences after an investigation launched in response to concerns raised in October 2024.
RSPCA officers were called to Steer’s address on October 16 after reports of animal welfare issues. Inside, they found four puppies and four adult Staffordshire bull terriers, including a father and daughter pair that had been bred to produce more puppies.
RSPCA Inspector Jo Daniel described the distressing conditions: “Two younger female dogs, Kia and Koda, showed visible signs of serious skin problems, including open sores, swelling, and thickened skin around their ears. Both were frequently scratching and shaking their heads. Kia was underweight and had noticeable fur loss.”
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Additionally, a corn snake named Noodles was found inside a vivarium in the sitting room. The enclosure was in complete darkness with no heat, light, or water provided. “Noodles was very cold to the touch,” Inspector Daniel added.
Steer was banned from owning animals for seven years, with the ban becoming non-appealable for five years, and ordered to pay £400 in costs. In mitigation, it was stated that she was overwhelmed but is now remorseful and has made positive changes.
Her 26-year-old son, Ben McKinnon of Hambledon Road, St Georges, Weston-super-Mare, was also sentenced after admitting to a single animal welfare offence related to Koda. While his mother cared for the dog daily, he acknowledged his awareness of the skin condition and admitted he should have taken greater responsibility. He was fined £833 and ordered to pay £400 in costs.