Shocking Dog Neglect Uncovered in Bexleyheath Home
New RSPCA photos expose horrific conditions at a Bexleyheath property where dogs were starved and two puppies found dead. The gruesome discovery came after Kriss Kesson, 60, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to animals.
In April, Kesson was handed a 30-week suspended sentence and banned from keeping dogs for 10 years.
What Officers Found Inside Kesson’s Home
On February 28, 2024, RSPCA officers and police raided the home on Rydal Drive, Bexleyheath. Prosecutor Joel Wootten told Woolwich Crown Court four starving dogs were found alive – three Rhodesian Ridgebacks and a Dalmatian – all visibly emaciated with ribs and bones showing.
Tragically, officers also found two dead puppies and the body of an adult Rhodesian Ridgeback named Reggie.
“The defendant told officers the dog had died a few days earlier and he was waiting for rigor mortis to end so he could bury him, while the puppies had died a few weeks ago,” said Mr Wootten.
Kesson claimed he cut back the dogs’ food because a knee injury limited his ability to walk them.
RSPCA: Dogs Suffered Prolonged Neglect
Four living dogs – Ozzy, Max, Alice, and Harry – were taken into RSPCA care. Animal Rescue Officer Tia Pennan revealed:
“Alice, the mother of the puppies, was emaciated with all of her ribs, spine, and hip bone showing.”
Ozzy and Max were covered in fleas and losing fur. Both sadly died in care. Only Harry and Alice survived, now on the road to recovery.
A vet confirmed the animals had suffered neglect for at least three weeks, possibly much longer.
Court: Kesson Tried to Shift Blame
Although he pleaded guilty, Judge Ben Gumpert KC said Kesson showed little remorse.
“These were sustained and prolonged periods of neglect… You failed to feed or care for these animals.”
“You even attempted to blame those who tried to save them.”
While on bail, Kesson was found with 10 more dogs and several fish at his home – breaking his ban.
RSPCA Warns: “Lucky We Got There in Time”
Inspector Clive Hopwood stressed the case’s severity:
“The degree of emaciation would have been obvious to any owner. It was lucky we visited when we did, as more dogs may have died.”
Defence Claims Longtime Breeder Fell Ill
Kesson’s lawyer argued he had bred dogs for over 30 years but had become both physically and mentally unwell. He reportedly contacted the RSPCA himself.
Calls for Tougher Animal Welfare Enforcement
The case sparks fresh worries over monitoring banned pet owners, especially after Kesson kept animals despite restrictions. Welfare campaigners push for stricter bans and harsher penalties in cruelty cases.
To report animal cruelty or get help, visit the RSPCA’s website or call their 24/7 cruelty line at 0300 1234 999.
