A Scots woman has been handed a three year ban after putting her dog at risk of 'significant physical and mental suffering.'
Siobhan Isabella Stewart Buchan, 31, of Edinburgh, has been found guilty of failing to seek veterinary treatment for her puppy, Ice.
The sentencing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Friday, May 27, 2021 followed reports from a concerned member of the public in 2020.
As a result of the ruling, Buchan will not be able to own more than one dog for a period of three years.
Ice was only five months old when he underwent what Scottish SPCA described as "a painful and unnecessary ear cropping procedure" to remove flaps on both ears.
The illegal surgery caused swelling, inflammation and infection, leaving the American bully suffering a lot of of pain and distress.
A Scottish SPCA special investigations unit undercover inspector said: “We immediately removed the puppy for veterinary attention and both his ears were found to be infected.
“Buchan stated she bought the puppy from France, however the procedure is also illegal there.
"It is an immensely painful and unnecessary procedure for an animal to go through, even if provided with full expert veterinary attention.
"Any dog that has been subjected to this procedure will have suffered significantly, physical and mentally, and will have been put at huge risk to health and life from the use of drugs, by untrained personnel, to anaesthetise the animal prior to procedure.
“Buchan allowed Ice to suffer to a great extent without veterinary care in order to avoid police involvement, which has put him at great risk of both physical and psychological harm.
“We are pleased that Buchan will not be able to own any further dogs and we hope she will carefully consider her ability to care for any animal in the future.
Ice has now been signed over in to the care of the Scottish SPCA who will find a loving and suitable home for him.
If anyone is concerned about an animal, the animal welfare charity's confidential helpline on 03000 999 999.
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