KEVIN HUNTER FROM LARKHALL SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY TO BORDER COLLIE GLENN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Larkhall, Kevin Hunter, born on September 10, 1967, and residing at 1 Tweed Street, was found guilty of neglecting his dog, a one-year-old border collie named Glenn. The incident came to light in July 2020 when Scottish SPCA officers responded to concerns about the dog's injuries and visited Hunter’s residence.

Upon arrival, the officers immediately noticed the severe condition of Glenn, who was suffering from an infected wound on his head. Further examination revealed a horrifying discovery: an elastic band had been tightly wrapped around the dog’s head and throat, embedded so deeply that it had become part of his flesh. The officers were appalled by the extent of the injury and the apparent neglect that had allowed such suffering to occur.

When questioned about the injury, Hunter initially claimed that the wound had occurred the day before the officers’ visit. However, he then attempted to deny any knowledge of the injury altogether. Inspector Jack Marshall of the Scottish SPCA described the scene, stating, “The wounds on Glenn’s head were immediately visible.”

He further explained, “Hunter was vague about when the wounds had occurred, initially claiming the incident happened the day before our visit and then a few days prior. When we took Glenn for veterinary treatment, the full extent of his injuries became clear. The embedded elastic band and the infection indicated that Glenn had been suffering for a significant period.”

The veterinarian’s assessment suggested that Glenn had been left in this condition for approximately two weeks, which would have caused him unimaginable pain and suffering. Despite the evidence, Hunter later claimed he was unaware of the injury until the Scottish SPCA officers arrived. Inspector Marshall emphasized that the wounds were clearly visible and that any responsible owner would have sought immediate medical attention for their pet. The officers and veterinary staff expressed confusion over how or why the elastic band ended up on Glenn’s head, as Hunter could not provide a satisfactory explanation.

In addition to the cruelty charges, Hunter also admitted to breaching a non-harassment order that was meant to prevent him from contacting his former partner. He further failed to comply with three community payback orders previously imposed on him.

During the court proceedings, Hunter’s defense lawyer, Stephen McQuillan, highlighted his client’s ongoing struggle with a “chronic” alcohol problem and pleaded with Sheriff Douglas Brown to avoid imprisonment, arguing that Hunter needed help rather than jail time. However, the sheriff pointed out that the accumulation of offenses and the findings of a negative criminal justice social work report left no alternative but to send Hunter to prison.

Sheriff Brown stated, “There is a very unfavourable report, and Hunter tries to minimise his involvement. Essentially, there is no option but custody.” Consequently, Hunter was sentenced to a total of 10 months in prison, with two months specifically for neglecting his dog. Additionally, he was banned from owning any animals for five years, a ban that will expire in May 2026.

Scottish SPCA Chief Inspector Sarah Gregory welcomed the sentence, expressing hope that Hunter would reconsider his ability to care for animals in the future. Glenn, after receiving treatment and care, showed significant improvement over the following weeks and was eventually rehomed once his wounds healed, symbolizing a positive outcome from a tragic case of neglect.