SEATON ANIMAL HOARDERS JOHN AND VICTORIA SYMON SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY IN ABERDEEN

John Symon, born 16 October 1981, and his wife Victoria Symon, born around 1986, both residents of 5 Seaton Gardens in Seaton, Aberdeen AB24 1XD, have been found guilty of severe animal neglect and cruelty. The couple kept a staggering number of animals—approximately 60 in total—including dogs, cats, small furry creatures, birds, and reptiles—confined within their modest flat. Scottish SPCA inspectors uncovered the appalling conditions during multiple visits, describing the overwhelming stench of animal waste that permeated the property.

Initially, authorities approached the Symons with offers of support rather than immediate prosecution, hoping to assist them in caring for their animals. However, despite these efforts, the couple continued to acquire more animals, disregarding the advice and warnings issued by animal welfare officials. The first inspection revealed distressed dogs confined in tiny cages, some of which were found in the couple’s lounge alongside numerous cats and other species, all living in cramped, unsanitary conditions. The hallway was covered in plastic sheeting caked with diarrhoea and urine, highlighting the neglect and poor hygiene standards.

One of the animals, Bono Bono, a five-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, was suffering from multiple health issues, including an ear and eye infection, dental disease, oily skin, and a penis infection. Prosecutor Lydia Ross described the scene to the court, emphasizing the distress caused by the overcrowded environment: “There were so many animals in this small property. The dogs were barking and rocking the cages intensely, which in turn was distressing the other animals.”

In a bid to mitigate the situation, the Symons signed over ownership of 13 animals—comprising bearded dragons, cats, dogs, and snakes—to the SSPCA for rehoming. Nevertheless, just two days later, the charity removed an additional 39 animals, including cats, kittens, rabbits, chinchillas, gerbils, small birds, and a parrot, after the couple was persuaded they could no longer properly care for such a large number of pets. During this process, the couple attempted to hide a litter of kittens in the bathroom, but these were also signed over to the charity. At this stage, it was agreed that the Symons could retain only two dogs and two cats.

Further inspections on September 30, 2020, revealed that the couple had acquired seven more animals, including kittens, rabbits, budgerigars, and a degu. The couple agreed to relinquish these new pets as well. Veterinary examinations confirmed that many of the animals had suffered unnecessary pain and distress, primarily due to the deplorable living conditions. The animals were underfed, with some showing signs of illness and neglect, including highly transmissible ear mites in the cats, which had caused small lacerations from scratching. The animals’ fur was soiled with faeces and diarrhoea, and some, like a one-year-old Chihuahua cross named Marshall, were noticeably underweight.

Among the dogs, Bono was found to have multiple infections and health issues that required urgent veterinary attention. The court heard that the owners had failed to seek treatment for Bono’s infections, causing him unnecessary suffering. Three of the dogs removed in September 2020 were emaciated, with matted coats stained with urine, and some bore wounds consistent with dog bites. The court was told that the neglect was so severe that it was a clear breach of animal welfare laws.

John Symon admitted to three charges of causing unnecessary suffering to animals and two charges of failing to meet their needs. Victoria Symon pleaded guilty to one charge of causing unnecessary suffering. Defence lawyers highlighted that Mr. Symon had a psychiatric condition that severely impacted his cognitive abilities, describing him as a well-meaning individual who loved animals but lacked the capacity to care for such a large number. The court was told that his actions stemmed from good intentions but were hampered by his inability to manage the responsibilities.

Both Symons were given a stark warning by Sheriff Margaret Hodge, who emphasized that their neglect had caused significant suffering. She acknowledged their mental health issues but stated that they had failed to accept responsibility for their actions. The Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona McKenzie expressed her disappointment, noting that despite initial efforts to help the couple, their continued neglect led to the removal of 76 animals from their flat, including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and birds. The inspector confirmed that the living conditions were so dire that the smell of animal waste was detectable in the communal areas, and the animals were visibly stressed and unwell.

In February 2023, the Symons received a lifetime ban from owning or keeping any animals. However, in November 2024, they appeared in court again, admitting to breaching this ban by keeping additional animals, including four lurcher dogs, three cats, and a Lhasa Apso dog, between February and April 2023. The couple was caught collecting dog food from a local foodbank, and officers found them with animals in their flat despite the restrictions. Their defence argued that both individuals suffered from mental health issues and cognitive limitations, which contributed to their actions. The court deferred sentencing for six months, requiring the couple to demonstrate good behaviour and full engagement with the animal ban.

Overall, the case highlights the tragic consequences of animal hoarding and neglect, with authorities emphasizing the importance of intervention and support for vulnerable individuals unable to care for their pets properly. The court’s actions reflect a firm stance against animal cruelty, with the Symons now facing significant legal restrictions and supervision to prevent further suffering.