Aberdeen man sentenced for animal cruelty and lifetime ban from owning dogs

ABERDEEN MAN SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AND LIFETIME BAN FROM OWNING DOGS

An owner from Aberdeenshire has been banned from owning dogs for life after leaving his pet to starve to death.

Gary Thomson, 30, of Bethelnie Cottages, Oldmeldrum, was sentenced at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Friday (12 December).

Thomson admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to his six-year-old American bulldog named Kendra by failing to provide adequate nutrition and veterinary care, in violation of section 19 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

The investigation revealed that Kendra was found in a high-fenced enclosure with an electric wire inside, and the run was covered in old excrement.

Her food bowl was empty, and she was severely underweight, weighing only 19.7kg when she should have been between 30-35kg.

A vet examination showed her head was sunken around her eyes, and her bones could be felt; she appeared wobbly on her legs.

Over five weeks in care, Kendra gained over a third of her body weight, increasing to 27kg.

Thomson was also ordered to complete 180 hours of community service within six months.

Senior Inspector Alison Simpson of the Scottish SPCA commented on Kendra’s condition upon rescue and the full recovery she made in care.

The investigation led to a life ban on Thomson owning dogs, and he was rewarded with a full recovery of Kendra, who has since found a loving home.