03/03/2022
We're disappointed to hear that the RSPCA will not be prosecuting anyone for the killing of a 10-year-old springer spaniel named Buster (pictured) whose bloodied body was discovered on 2 February by a dog walker in , Somerset. A post-mortem confirmed that Buster had been shot dead with no evidence of other injuries. This is despite initial reports suggesting that the dog had been bludgeoned before being shot.
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We’re deeply saddened by this horrific and gruesome discovery and are grateful for everyone who has supported investigations.
“The dog’s body was taken for a post mortem at an independent specialist vet who found he had been shot, with no evidence of any other injuries.
“Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is an offence for anyone to cause an animal unnecessary suffering.
“As a charity which investigates animal cruelty, we rely on evidence from examinations and tests conducted by veterinary professionals. In this instance, the veterinary professionals concluded the dog had not suffered unnecessarily.
“While we absolutely do not condone anyone killing a dog in this way, and sympathise with all those distressed by this incident, our officers must always operate within the confines of the law. If a dog needs to be put to sleep then a qualified vet is the right person to euthanise an animal humanely and painlessly.
“We will continue to liaise with authorities to assist with any further enquiries.”
The woman who found the dog is reportedly disputing the finding that he had no other injuries, died quickly or pain free and is calling on the RSPCA and the police to investigate further.
It has also been reported that the dog had been found and taken to a vet in Wells not long before the grim discovery, with claims that it may have been a failed attempt to abandon the dog. As he was microchipped, the owners David Phillips and Sophie Eames from , near (pictured), were traced and the dog returned.
Although bloodsports fanatic Phillips owns a shotgun, he denies responsibility for Buster's death and claims he gave him away.
Now, locals are holding a peaceful vigil where Buster's body was found – to show compassion for the animal and to send a message that actions of this kind are not acceptable.
Shine a Light for Buster will take place on Sunday, 6th March at 6 pm at the top of Haydon Hill.
Event details: https://www.facebook.com/katiejfox.1967/posts/10227265353241383
Justice for Buster petition: https://www.change.org/p/rspca-help-get-buster-the-justice-he-deserves
Follow this post for news and updates: https://www.facebook.com/katiejfox.1967/posts/10227245776271971
https://ukanimalcrueltyfiles.org/radstock-somerset-david-phillips-and-sophie-eames/
https://www.mnrjournal.co.uk/article.cfm?id=121960&headline=Community%20in%20shock%20as%20dog%20shot%20dead%20in%20Haydon§ionIs=news&searchyear=2022