ALASTAIR JACKSON AND SUSANNE ILIFF FROM LOCHGELLY FACE JUSTICE OVER CRUELTY TO DOGS
In a case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare authorities, Alastair Jackson and his partner Susanne Iliff, both residents of Inchgall Avenue, Crosshill, Lochgelly KY5, were found guilty of neglecting their dogs' urgent health needs.The couple’s failure to seek proper veterinary care for their animals resulted in considerable suffering, with the dogs enduring painful skin conditions and severe neglect.
Alastair Jackson, born around 1981, was specifically responsible for two dogs named Zac and Phoenix.
Zac, a ten-year-old dog, was discovered in a dire state, exhibiting a poor body condition with ribs, spine, and hip bones clearly visible.
The dog was also suffering from a severe flea infestation, which compounded his suffering.
Jackson admitted to causing unnecessary pain and distress to Zac and Phoenix between September 3 and October 3, 2017.
His neglect was compounded by an incident on October 31, when a Scottish SPCA officer arrived to seize one of the dogs.
During this encounter, Jackson threatened the officer, shouting, “I will find out where you live, bitch,” in a display of hostility and intimidation.
Susanne Iliff, Jackson’s partner, also faced charges for her role in neglecting their second dog, Phoenix.
The one-year-old dog was found with skin irritations and a severe ear infection, both of which had been left untreated by the couple.
The pair claimed that their inability to afford veterinary treatment was the reason for their neglect.
However, authorities emphasized that neglecting animals’ health needs is a serious offense regardless of financial hardship.
During court proceedings, defense solicitor Michelle Renton explained that Zac had been taken into the couple’s care after previously belonging to Jackson’s father and later his brother.
She described the couple as relying on benefits to support their family of five and feeling overwhelmed by the health issues their dogs faced.
Renton acknowledged that the couple had made attempts to seek treatment but were unable to follow through due to their financial situation.
She also admitted that Jackson lost his temper during the incident when the SPCA officers arrived, particularly because Iliff was still in her nightdress at the time.
Jackson’s efforts to downplay the severity of the situation were noted, but he ultimately accepted that more could have been done to prevent the animals’ suffering.
Representing Iliff, Jonathan Matheson-Dear acknowledged that financial constraints can hinder access to veterinary care and that she should have explored alternative options.
The court heard that both individuals recognized their failings but had not taken sufficient action to address their dogs’ health issues.
Sheriff Jamie Gilchrist QC emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating, “Whatever the circumstances, if you take on ownership of a dog then you are responsible for that animal.
Your lack of action resulted in what appears to be substantial suffering to two animals and that is a serious matter.
Mr Jackson, you demonstrated a completely unacceptable response to animal welfare officers who were doing their jobs as a result of your failure to look after these animals.” Following the proceedings, both Zac and Phoenix were surrendered to the Scottish SPCA.
It is understood that the dogs are now in good health and receiving proper care.
In terms of sentencing, Jackson was ordered to adhere to a five-week tagging order, while Iliff was given a requirement of 60 hours of unpaid work to be completed within three months.
Additionally, both were banned from owning dogs for a period of three years, a restriction that expired in November 2021.
The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, regardless of financial hardship.
