ALLISON GIRDWOOD FROM TORRYBURN FACES FINE AND PET BAN AFTER YEARS OF NEGLECTING DOG IN DUNFERMLINE

In a case that has shocked animal welfare advocates, Allison Girdwood, a resident of Craigflower Gardens in the village of Torryburn near Dunfermline, was found guilty of neglecting her beloved cocker spaniel, Bracken. Born around 1957, Girdwood’s failure to provide proper care for her dog resulted in years of suffering for the animal, ultimately leading to Bracken’s euthanasia.

Bracken was suffering from a multitude of health issues, including severe skin conditions, overgrown nails, ear infections, eye problems, dental disease, and a noticeable tumour. Despite these evident signs of distress, Girdwood did not seek veterinary assistance for her pet, allowing his condition to deteriorate over an extended period.

Scottish SPCA Inspector Nicola Liddell recounted her distressing findings upon entering Girdwood’s residence. She described a strong fungal odor permeating the property, which indicated that Bracken had been enduring his painful condition for a long time without intervention. The inspector immediately removed the dog from the premises and sought veterinary advice to assess his health.

Veterinary examinations revealed that Bracken had been suffering from chronic dermatological issues, which had gone unchecked for years. It was discovered that he had not been seen by a veterinarian since 2011, meaning his various ailments had been neglected for over a decade. The dog’s nails were overgrown, and his paws were inflamed, making movement painful and difficult.

Further medical assessments uncovered two masses, one of which was located on his neck. Bracken was also suffering from severe dental disease, with many teeth missing, and a condition known as ‘dry eye,’ which would have significantly impaired his vision. The extent of his suffering was heartbreaking, and veterinary professionals concluded that euthanasia was the most humane option.

Inspector Liddell emphasized that Bracken’s health issues could have been easily managed with regular veterinary visits. Her statement highlighted the tragic failure of Girdwood to prioritize her pet’s needs, leading to unnecessary pain and suffering.

Girdwood pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering by neglecting her dog’s health. She was subsequently sentenced to a fine of £400 and received a ban from owning pets for three years, a restriction that expired in May 2021.

This case has garnered attention from local media outlets such as The Sun and the Dunfermline Press, shedding light on the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect.