Newly released photos by the RSPCA have revealed the horrific conditions inside a Bexleyheath home where multiple dogs were found emaciated—alongside the bodies of two puppies and an adult dog.

The disturbing images emerged following the sentencing of Kriss Kesson, 60, who pleaded guilty to four counts of causing unnecessary suffering to animals. In April, he received a 30-week suspended prison sentence and a 10-year ban on keeping dogs.

What Officers Found Inside the Property

On February 28, 2024, RSPCA officers accompanied by police entered Kesson’s home on Rydal Drive, Bexleyheath. Prosecutor Joel Wootten told Woolwich Crown Court that four living dogs—three Rhodesian Ridgebacks and one Dalmatian—were found in a severely emaciated condition, with visible ribs, hip bones, and signs of prolonged suffering.

Tragically, two dead puppies and the body of a deceased adult Rhodesian Ridgeback named Reggie were also discovered.

“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 reportedly told officers he reduced their food intake due to a knee injury that limited his ability to walk the dogs.

RSPCA: Dogs Suffered Prolonged Neglect

All four living dogs—Ozzy, Max, Alice, and Harry—were taken in by the RSPCA. Animal Rescue Officer Tia Pennan reported:

“Alice, the mother of the puppies, was emaciated with all of her ribs, spine, and hip bone showing.”

Ozzy and Max were also infested with fleas and suffering fur loss. Both later died in RSPCA care. Only Harry and Alice survived, both now on the path to recovery.

A veterinary assessment confirmed the dogs had been suffering for at least three weeks, if not longer.

Court: Kesson Attempted to Blame Rescuers

Despite pleading guilty, the court heard that Kesson had not shown full remorse. Judge Ben Gumpert KC sentenced him on April 22, stating:

“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 out on bail, 10 additional dogs and a number of fish were discovered at his property, despite his prohibition on keeping pets.

RSPCA: “It Was Lucky We Got There in Time”

RSPCA Inspector Clive Hopwood stressed the severity of the case:

“The degree of emaciation of these dogs would have been apparent to any owner. It was lucky we visited the defendant’s home when we did, as the other dogs may have died at his home.”

Defence: Long-Term Breeder in Poor Health

Defending lawyer Ben Wild said Kesson had bred dogs for over 30 years and had become physically and mentally unwell. The court was told Kesson had contacted the RSPCA himself.

Ongoing Animal Welfare Concerns

The case has raised serious concerns about the monitoring of banned pet owners, especially after Kesson was found to have animals again while under restriction.

Animal welfare advocates have called for stricter enforcement and longer bans in cases of extreme neglect.

For more information on how to report animal cruelty, visit the RSPCA’s website or contact their 24/7 cruelty line at 0300 1234 999.