Chronological coverage updated 5th October 2026 01:11.
Update 1 · 5th October 2026
Seventy-Nine Starving Spaniels Rescued from South Yorkshire Home Rehomed Across UK
Seventy-nine springer spaniels rescued from severe neglect inside a South Yorkshire property have been successfully rehomed with families across the UK following a major animal welfare operation.
Inspectors from the RSPCA and South Yorkshire Police discovered 80 springer spaniels and four patterdale terriers living in squalid, filthy conditions inside a home in Tickhill, near Doncaster. The emaciated animals were found crowded together on a rotting staircase covered in dirt and grime.
Conviction of Former Social Worker
David Parkes, 61, a children's social worker, denied owning or being responsible for the animals but was found guilty of three animal welfare offences following a trial at Barnsley Magistrates' Court. He now faces a potential prison sentence for animal cruelty. While one dog tragically had to be euthanised due to its condition, all remaining spaniels were placed into foster and adoptive care.
79 out of 80 rescued springer spaniels were successfully treated, rehabilitated, and rehomed following the cruelty conviction. — according to RSPCA.
New Lives Across the Country
The rescued spaniels have been adopted by families across Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, the Midlands, County Durham, and Merseyside. Adoptive owners report that despite initial hesitation and anxiety, the dogs have made remarkable recoveries.
Dailymail reportedly quoted Lisa Marchant (Adopter of rescued spaniel Polly) as saying: “I would describe Polly as high on life, everything is wonderful to her.”.
Owners praised the resilience of the dogs, noting that many have quickly bonded with children, other household pets, and their new environments after surviving extreme overcrowding and starvation.
- 79 rescued springer spaniels have been rehabilitated and placed in permanent homes across the UK.
- Former social worker David Parkes faces potential imprisonment after being convicted of three animal welfare offences.
- RSPCA officers successfully coordinated nation-wide adoptions following the rescue near Doncaster.