KIRSTY MCNEIL'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN LIVINGSTON REVEALED

Kirsty McNeil, born on May 13, 1981, and formerly residing on Nelson Avenue in Livingston, has been at the center of a disturbing case of animal neglect that shocked the local community and animal welfare advocates alike.

Investigations uncovered that McNeil had kept the emaciated remains of a dog named Cooper in her freezer, a chilling testament to the neglect she inflicted upon her pets. The discovery was made after authorities responded to reports of poor animal conditions at her residence, which is located in Livingston, a town known for its suburban neighborhoods and close-knit community.

The case first came to light on November 24, 2019, when an anonymous caller contacted the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), alerting them to the dire state of two cats at McNeil’s home. Upon arrival, SSPCA inspectors found a scene of squalor: the floor was covered in dog feces, and a strong smell of urine permeated the flat. The inspectors discovered Cooper’s body in a shallow grave in the garden, after it had been stored in a broken freezer drawer. His fur was so matted that the breed could not be identified, and he showed signs of severe neglect, including overgrown claws, a lack of proper grooming, and fecal matter caked on his hindquarters. The cause of death was determined to be organ failure due to malnutrition.

In addition to Cooper, two other dogs—Max, a Yorkshire terrier, and Benji, a small cross-breed—were found in similarly poor condition. Max was extremely thin, with a matted coat, and had to be treated by a veterinarian. Benji appeared to be in fair condition but also suffered from overgrown nails, a consequence of inadequate exercise and care. The inspectors observed that the animals had attempted to escape, evidenced by chewed and scratched door frames and exposed sharp carpet grippers around the edges of the contaminated carpet.

McNeil pleaded guilty to multiple charges of neglect, including failing to properly feed Cooper, leading to his emaciation and death. She also admitted to neglecting her other pets—two dogs and two cats—by failing to provide adequate food, water, and exercise between September 24 and November 24, 2019. Furthermore, she was found to have neglected her mother, Agnes Woodside, for whom she was a carer, along with other individuals, by not providing sufficient food and clothing.

During court proceedings, McNeil’s defense highlighted her poor mental health at the time of the offenses, asserting that she was not intentionally cruel but was overwhelmed and unable to care for her animals properly. Her mental health issues were acknowledged as a contributing factor, and she expressed that she had since engaged with social work and support services to address her circumstances.

Initially, McNeil received a deferred sentence in August 2021, which was extended in November 2021 for nine months to allow her to benefit from ongoing support. The court, presided over by Sheriff Jane Farquharson, emphasized the importance of her rehabilitation, stating, “Nine months gives her the opportunity to do what she needs, but gives her the security that the court is keeping an eye on things to ensure that she’s maintaining her progress.”

Her case was adjourned until August 18, 2022, with the condition that she remains of good behavior during this period. A five-year ban on keeping animals was imposed, which will expire in August 2026. The court acknowledged her efforts to improve but underscored the seriousness of her actions and the importance of ongoing accountability.

Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona Thorburn commented on the case, stating, “The suffering McNeil directly caused Max and Cooper by failing to provide food and the most basic of care was entirely avoidable.” She further noted that the animals had been taken to rescue centers for treatment and rehabilitation, emphasizing the preventable nature of their suffering and the importance of animal welfare laws in protecting vulnerable pets in Livingston and beyond.