GILLIAN MOIR AND ADRIAN OGG FROM BARTHOL CHAPEL SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO ANIMALS IN INVERURIE

Gillian Moir, born August 1997, and Adrian Ogg, born circa 1979, residents of Ramana Farm in Barthol Chapel, Inverurie, faced serious allegations after authorities uncovered a disturbing case of animal neglect and cruelty on their property. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) launched an investigation into the couple’s farm following reports raising concerns about the welfare of several animals kept there.

Inspectors discovered a heartbreaking scene: numerous animals, including sheep, ponies, goats, and small mammals, were found in deplorable conditions, many of them severely malnourished and suffering. Among the most distressing findings was Leo, a 30-year-old Connemara gelding, whose body condition was critically poor. Despite exhibiting a generally bright demeanor, Leo’s eyes appeared jaundiced, with a veterinarian noting that his condition likely developed over a period of at least three weeks, possibly longer, due to malnutrition or underlying health issues. The veterinarian emphasized that veterinary intervention should have been sought earlier to diagnose and treat the underlying causes.

In addition to Leo, two older sheep housed nearby were also found in a dire state. Both sheep exhibited signs of severe neglect, including worn-down front teeth that had been ground down to the gums, and both were so weak that they struggled to stand during examination. Tragically, both sheep had to be euthanized to alleviate their suffering. A pygmy goat named Pepper was also discovered dead on the farm. Post-mortem examinations revealed that the goat’s death was a direct result of neglect, with the failure to seek veterinary care contributing to his unnecessary suffering.

The investigation further uncovered two makeshift hutches, partially covered with blankets, where most of the couple’s dogs were kept. Inside the first hutch, described as “filthy,” investigators found the carcasses of three dead ferrets. A single live ferret was also discovered in the same enclosure, in a state of extreme weakness, dehydration, and infection. The ferret was unable to open his eyes, which were covered in pus, indicating a severe infection. Despite efforts to treat him at Donview Veterinary Centre, the ferret was euthanized on welfare grounds, as it was estimated he would have died within 24 hours due to starvation and dehydration. Veterinarians believed he had suffered for at least a week, if not longer.

In the second hutch, investigators found the carcasses of two additional ferrets, further highlighting the extent of neglect. Both Moir and Ogg pleaded guilty to four charges of causing animals unnecessary suffering. During the court proceedings, Moir’s lawyer explained that her client had become overwhelmed by the number of animals she was caring for and struggled to provide adequate care. The lawyer also mentioned that a recent lightning strike had caused the pony to stop eating and that the sheep’s worn teeth were due to old age. Concerning the ferrets, the lawyer admitted they had been “forgotten about,” with no food or water provided, which was acknowledged as true.

Ogg’s legal representative stated that her client had been employed as a farm worker in Aberdeenshire for 20 years and was experienced in animal care. She argued that Ogg would not have remained in his position if he was incapable of caring for animals properly. She also noted that he accepted responsibility for his actions and pointed out that a recent SSPCA visit showed some improvement in the farm’s conditions. She expressed concern that a disqualification order should not extend to animals the couple breeds and sells as part of their livelihood.

Sheriff Johnston addressed the court, emphasizing the severity of the neglect. She stated that a disqualification order banning the couple from keeping certain animals was necessary, citing their failure to seek veterinary treatment as the primary cause of the animals’ unnecessary suffering. The sheriff described the conditions in which the ferrets were found as “frankly squalid” and confirmed that they had to be euthanized. The court sentenced both Moir and Ogg to a combined fine of £4,950 and imposed a ban on them from keeping animals for ten years, with exceptions for sheep, pigs, cats, and dogs. Additionally, they were disqualified from dealing in animals, except for those they breed and sell as part of their business.

This case highlights the ongoing issues of animal cruelty and neglect in rural areas like Barthol Chapel and underscores the importance of vigilant enforcement and animal welfare standards.