A couple from Airdrie has been handed a fine and supervision order after allowing their dog to become bone "skin and bone" and failing to get another veterinary treatment for an ear "full of tumours".
The SPCA attended the home of Brian Smith, 39, and Patricia O'Donnell, 34, in April 2021 following multiple reports of concern for a dog.
Their report details finding a Labrador-cross type dog "extremely underweight" and "cowering away". An examination of a second dog found it to be suffering from bilateral ear disease and dental issues.
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Scottish SPCA chief inspector, John Chisholm, said: “We attended the property in April 2021 following complaints to our animal helpline of dog neglect.
“The reports described a Labrador cross type dog at the property who was extremely underweight and would often cower away. The dog was described by one caller as ‘skin and bone’ with their back end protruding.
“O’Donnell explained that her Labrador cross, Luna, was a Romanian rescue and they were working hard to get her to a healthy weight. Upon seeing Luna we were immediately concerned as she was severely emaciated, with her hips, spine, and ribs prominently protruding.
“O’Donnell claimed that Luna had been seen by a vet and they had been given dietary advice. However, she could not recall any information regarding this. She also changed her story around this multiple times.
“Concern grew for Luna’s welfare and O’Donnell was cautioned. She admitted to owning one other dog, Millie. Millie was scruffy in appearance and had areas of matted and tangled fur to her underside and around her ears. O’Donnell became increasingly agitated and angry that her animals were being taken for veterinary care."
Chisholm added: “Upon veterinary examination, it was found that Luna would have been caused an unnecessary amount of suffering due to her poor body condition, and appropriate medical attention not being sought.
“Millie’s body condition was found to be less than ideal, and she was found to be suffering from a bilateral ear disease and dental issues.
“Concern grew for Millie’s ears and she was given a general anaesthetic in order to examine them fully.
“Once a large volume of thick black wax was removed, the procedure revealed Millie’s ears were full of tumours. Veterinary professionals advised her prognosis for recovery was poor, but she could be made comfortable with medication for the time being. She had not been treated for this previously, and was undoubtedly caused suffering.
“Luna gained 2kg in weight in her first seven days at one of our animal rescue and rehoming centres."
Brian Smith, of Chapelhall, pled guilty to failing to provide a nutritionally adequate diet for his golden Labrador, Luna, while Patricia O’Donnell of Cairnhill pled guilty to failing to provide veterinary treatment to her elderly dog, Millie.
Smith received a 12-month supervision order and 75 hours unpaid work and O'Donnell received a £250 fine.
Mr Chisholm added: “It is extremely disappointing that considering the amount of suffering that was caused to Millie and Luna, a harsher sentencing was not given."
"O’Donnell and Smith have clearly shown that they were not able to provide their animals with the care they needed, and we would have hoped this to be reflected in a ban on owning or keeping animals."
If anyone is concerned about an animal, contact the SSPCA confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
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