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Dog Muzzled 24/7 Dies After Taping Incident
14 Apr
Summary
- German Shepherd Sparrow found with muzzle taped shut.
- Owner banned from owning animals for five years.
- Two kittens also rescued, suffering dehydration and fleas.
In a tragic case of animal neglect, a German Shepherd named Sparrow died after being discovered with its muzzle permanently taped shut and in an underweight condition. Joanne Falconer, 58, the dog's owner, has received a five-year ban on keeping animals. RSPCA inspectors found Sparrow and two kittens, Alpha and Beta, at Falconer's home in South Shields last July.
The German Shepherd was found to be extremely thin, with its ribs, spine, and pelvis visible. The muzzle, secured with duct tape and parcel tape, could only be removed for brief feeding sessions. The kittens were also found severely dehydrated and flea-infested.
On October 28, 2025, Falconer pleaded guilty to animal welfare abuse charges. She was fined £300, ordered to pay £300 in costs, and an £80 victim surcharge. While Falconer was described as well-intentioned but incompetent, the severity of the neglect led to Sparrow's death. The kittens have since been rehomed by the RSPCA.
