BOB BAIRD OF SLAMANNAN AND FALKIRK CONVICTED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN ABANDONED HORSEBOX

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Bob Baird, a resident of Easter Whin Farm in Limerigg, Slamannan, Falkirk, has been found guilty of neglecting a dog named Drift. The incident came to light during a routine inspection conducted by Falkirk Council’s Animal Health & Welfare and Trading Standards teams in early 2024. The authorities visited Baird’s property, which was uninhabited at the time, and upon their departure, they heard faint whining and movement emanating from an abandoned horsebox situated on the premises.

Curious and concerned, the officers approached the vehicle for a closer look. The horsebox was fully closed, with a small, mould-covered window that obscured any natural light or ventilation. Inside, they discovered a distressing scene: Drift, a sheepdog, was confined behind a makeshift wire barrier that was precariously held up by a garden rake. The dog was kept in a cramped space measuring approximately two by three meters, with a floorspace of only six square meters.

Drift’s condition was visibly poor. His fur was heavily matted, and he appeared to be in a state of significant distress. The area surrounding him was filthy, thick with accumulated faeces, and lacked any dry space for him to rest. Two empty bowls were found nearby, indicating that the dog had been deprived of food and water for an extended period. The combination of his emaciated appearance, matted coat, and agitated behavior pointed to prolonged neglect and suffering.

Veterinary assessment confirmed that Drift’s living conditions were in direct violation of animal welfare laws, which mandate that owners must provide animals with adequate food, water, shelter, and protection from unnecessary suffering. Following the vet’s advice, authorities removed Drift from the horsebox and transported him to a veterinary clinic. There, he received a thorough bath and antibiotics to treat any infections. Subsequently, Drift was transferred into the care of the Scottish SPCA, and it is reported that he has since been successfully rehomed.

During the court proceedings, Bob Baird pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006. The charges included causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the basic welfare needs of the animal. The court sentenced Baird to a community payback order with two years of supervision. Additionally, he was disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of 15 years, a measure intended to prevent future neglect or abuse.

This case highlights the importance of animal welfare enforcement and the ongoing efforts by local authorities to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty and neglect. The Falkirk community and animal welfare organizations continue to advocate for responsible pet ownership and stricter penalties for offenders.