ALEXANDER DENHOLM'S CRUELTY IN LANARK: DOG STARVATION CASE LEADS TO FIVE-YEAR BAN

Alexander Isaac Denholm, a resident of Braxfield Terrace in Lanark, was found guilty of severe animal neglect involving a dog named Marley. Born on July 6, 1974, Denholm’s case drew significant attention after an investigation by the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA).

Marley, a nine-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier-type dog, was discovered in a critically emaciated state, a clear sign of prolonged neglect. Despite her dire condition, Marley was still alert and friendly when the Scottish SPCA officers arrived at the scene. The investigation was initiated after a concerned member of the public contacted the animal helpline on April 8, 2018, raising alarms about the welfare of the dog.

Upon arriving at the property, the inspector Heather Lawson encountered Marley, who, despite her skeletal appearance, exhibited a bright and responsive demeanor. With Denholm’s consent, Marley was removed from the residence and taken to a veterinary clinic for a thorough examination. The vet’s assessment revealed that Marley weighed only 12.4 kilograms, significantly underweight for her age and breed, with a body condition score of just 1-2 out of 5. Additionally, the veterinarian noted skin issues on both of her back legs, likely caused by self-trauma due to discomfort or skin disease.

During the consultation, Marley eagerly ate the food offered to her, indicating her hunger and the extent of her deprivation. The veterinary team concluded that Marley had suffered from neglect over an extended period, deprived of basic necessities such as adequate food and water. The neglect was so severe that it had led to her skeletal condition and skin problems.

Thanks to the dedicated care provided by the Scottish SPCA, Marley was gradually rehabilitated and eventually rehomed to a loving family. Her recovery took place at their centre in Lanarkshire, where she received the necessary medical attention and nurturing to regain her health and confidence. Her story underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect.

Denholm was prosecuted and pleaded guilty to failing to provide a suitable diet for Marley. The court sentenced him to a fine of £200 and imposed a five-year ban on owning dogs, which will expire in July 2024. Inspector Heather Lawson commented on the case, emphasizing that such neglect does not happen overnight and could have been easily prevented. She expressed hope that Denholm would reflect on his ability to care for animals in the future and urged the public to remain vigilant about animal welfare.

Overall, this case highlights the critical role of community vigilance and animal welfare organizations in protecting vulnerable animals from cruelty and neglect, ensuring that justice is served for those who cannot speak for themselves.