Home / Crime and Justice / Ex-GP Nicola Stirk Banned for Animal Neglect
Ex-GP Nicola Stirk Banned for Animal Neglect
29 Oct
Summary
- Two dogs and two cats lived in extreme squalor.
- Nicola Stirk ignored multiple warnings from authorities.
- She has been banned from keeping animals for two years.
In Hutton Henry, County Durham, Nicola Stirk, 63, has been banned from keeping animals for two years following neglect discovered at her property. RSPCA officers found a Doberman, a Borzoi, and two cats living in deplorable conditions, surrounded by faeces, urine, and extensive rubbish.
Inspector Rowena Proctor described the scene as "dreadful" on February 3, noting soiled surfaces and unusable furniture. Despite previous warnings and some initial improvements, Stirk failed to maintain a suitable environment for the animals. The animals were removed and are now under RSPCA care.
Mabel the Doberman settled quickly, but Anya the Borzoi required months of rehabilitation. Stirk received a 15-month community order and was ordered to pay £900 in costs. She cited mental health issues as a mitigating factor.
