OWEN GILLESPIE FROM FERGUSLIE PARK FACES JUSTICE OVER DOG'S SUFFERING IN PAISLEY

In a case that has shocked animal welfare advocates and residents of Ferguslie Park, Owen Anthony Gillespie, born on February 9, 1979, and residing at Westwood Gardens, Paisley PA3 1NA, was found guilty of neglecting his pet dog, Stella, a nine-year-old Staffy. The heartbreaking incident unfolded when Gillespie left his ailing dog in a state of severe distress, failing to seek necessary veterinary care for her worsening health issues.

On April 25, 2019, the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) responded to a distress call reporting a dog in obvious pain and distress at Gillespie’s residence. When officers arrived at approximately 10:45 a.m., they discovered Stella confined within a cage in the living room, visibly vomiting and in a state of discomfort. Gillespie explained to the officers that the dog had been vomiting for several days but had not been taken to a vet due to financial constraints.

The SSPCA officers observed that, despite her condition, Stella appeared to be in relatively good bodily health and was alert. However, the watery vomit covering the cage floor and her retching indicated her suffering was severe. Gillespie admitted that Stella had recently ingested part of a tennis ball’s outer covering, which could have contributed to her health issues. The officers noted that Stella was lame on her right leg, further evidence of her neglected state.

Recognizing the urgency, the officers informed Gillespie that veterinary treatment was essential. As he was unemployed, they advised him that financial assistance could be obtained through the PDSA, a veterinary charity. Once Stella was taken for treatment, the full extent of her suffering was revealed. The veterinary examination uncovered inflamed and infected ear canals, with thickened and narrowed passages, accompanied by a foul smell. Her abdomen was tense and uncomfortable, and her stomach wall was thickened. Most critically, her esophagus was inflamed and flaccid, impairing her ability to swallow food properly.

Despite efforts to treat her, Stella’s condition continued to deteriorate. She persistently vomited, and the veterinary team concluded that euthanasia was the most humane option to end her suffering. The vet explained that if Gillespie had sought prompt medical attention earlier, her pain and suffering could have been alleviated, but due to the severity of her stomach condition, her chances of survival remained uncertain.

Gillespie pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his dog between February and April 2019 by neglecting her injuries, persistent vomiting, and ear infections. His legal representative, Amy Spencer, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating that he had already paid a heavy price for his actions, having lost Stella and feeling deeply traumatised. She emphasized his regret, noting that he had worked throughout his adult life until recently losing his job, and he had hoped for her recovery.

In sentencing, the court ordered Gillespie to pay a fine of £500 and imposed a one-year ban on keeping dogs. The case has drawn attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglecting animal welfare in Ferguslie Park and beyond.