EDINBURGH WOMAN LIZA TELFER STARVES DOGS TO DEATH IN DIRTY PROPERTY
In March 2025, a tragic case of animal neglect unfolded in Edinburgh, highlighting the severe consequences of cruelty and abandonment.Liza Telfer, a 39-year-old woman originally from Saughton Mains and now residing in Drylaw, Edinburgh, faced serious charges after she deliberately left her three dogs alone in a deplorable state for an extended period of ten days.
Her actions resulted in the death of one of her pets and severe suffering for the others.
According to reports, Telfer abandoned her three English bulldogs—Bonnie, Lady, and Yogi—in a property that was in a shocking state of disrepair.
The residence was filled with rubbish, and the environment was described as filthy and uninhabitable.
During this period of neglect, the dogs were left without access to food or water, leading to tragic consequences.
When rescuers finally managed to gain entry into the property, they discovered a heartbreaking scene.
Bonnie, the tan and white bulldog, had already succumbed to her injuries and was found dead.
An autopsy later confirmed that she had suffered organ failure and had starved to death.
Meanwhile, the other two dogs, Lady and Yogi, were found in a severely emaciated condition, with their coats heavily matted and their teeth damaged, indicative of prolonged neglect and malnutrition.
The property itself was in a state of chaos, with broken windows, damaged furniture, and piles of rubbish scattered throughout.
The smell of decay and filth was pervasive, making the environment hazardous and unfit for any living creature.
Scottish SPCA Inspectors, who had to force their way into the premises due to Telfer’s initial refusal to cooperate, encountered a scene of disorder and neglect.
Doors had been chewed by the dogs, with door handles also damaged, and faeces were strewn across the floors.
The inspectors also found a dead rat in the toilet, further emphasizing the unsanitary conditions.
After locating the surviving dogs, authorities confirmed that both Lady and Yogi were extremely underweight, suffering from a lack of proper nutrition.
Telfer initially refused to disclose the whereabouts of the other two dogs, but after persistent questioning, the animals were recovered and taken into care.
The case drew significant attention, leading to legal proceedings.
Telfer was ultimately handed an 18-month supervision order by the court.
Additionally, she was permanently banned from owning or keeping any animals for the rest of her life, a measure intended to prevent future incidents of neglect and cruelty.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting animals in need.
