MARSHALL HAY OF CASTLEHILL, METHLICK SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL WELFARE OFFENSES

In 2019, Marshall Hay, born around 1940 and located in Castlehill, Methlick AB41, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to his livestock. He left three steer bovines to endure pain from ingrown horns that had penetrated their skin, ultimately leading to the animals being euthanised.

Senior Scottish SPCA inspector Alison Simpson commented on the case, stating, “This charge was dealt with as Hay failed to seek standard veterinary treatment for his cattle, primarily three males.”

She detailed the injuries: “The first was a black and white castrated male with an ingrown right horn that protruded four inches into his sinus, creating a seven-centimetre-wide hole in his head. After removing the horn, dressing the wound, and administering antibiotics, it was also discovered he had a broken right tibia. The decision was immediately made to euthanise him to prevent further suffering.”

“The second animal, a red castrated male, had both horns growing into the side of his head. The right horn was embedded into soft tissue, puncturing the skin by five centimetres and creating a hole. The left horn was also overgrown but less severe.”

“The third was another red castrated male, with the right horn grown into his head and the left horn near the front of his eye. The right horn was embedded into soft tissue and pierced five centimetres into his head; the left horn was obstructing his eye and beginning to penetrate the skin.”

Inspector Simpson added, “The decision was made to euthanise both red males to prevent further suffering.”

She further noted, “We're pleased that Hay pled guilty, and the sentence was handed down accordingly. Prosecution is always a last resort for the Scottish SPCA, and every effort was made to work with Hay prior to this. However, his disregard for his animals' welfare left us with no other option.”

Though the remaining cattle were relocated from Hay’s property at the time, it has been noted that after these animals were moved, more arrived at his premises. Hay now faces a two-month period before a ban on keeping or owning cattle is enforced, which has been suspended for two years.

The Evening Express reported on this case, highlighting the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect.