STEFAN ZELAN FROM KIRKMUIRHILL SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING CAT'S BROKEN LEG

In a case that has drawn attention to animal welfare concerns in the Lanark area, Stefan Zelan, a resident of Hope Road, Kirkmuirhill, was found guilty of neglecting his pet cat, Bonnie, by failing to seek veterinary treatment for her severely broken leg. Zelan, born in July 1983, faced charges under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, specifically Section 19(2)(a)(b), which pertains to causing unnecessary suffering to animals.

Bonnie, a black and white domestic long-haired cat, was discovered with an unexplained injury to her leg. Despite the evident distress and injury, her owner, Stefan Zelan, did not take any action to have her examined or treated. The neglect was brought to light during an investigation conducted by animal welfare authorities, leading to her veterinary assessment.

Veterinary professionals examined Bonnie and performed X-rays, which revealed that her leg had suffered a fracture that had begun to heal improperly due to the lack of treatment. The injury was severe enough that the veterinary team concluded amputation was the most humane and effective course of action. Fortunately, after the procedure, Bonnie made a full recovery, is now pain-free, and is adapting well to life on three legs.

Following her treatment, Bonnie was transferred to a rescue centre where she will remain until a suitable forever home is found. The case has been overseen by Inspector Emma Sergeant, who commented on the proceedings and the importance of responsible pet ownership. She emphasized that owning an animal is a privilege that carries significant responsibilities, including ensuring prompt veterinary care when needed.

Inspector Sergeant expressed her satisfaction with the court's handling of the case, which resulted in Zelan receiving an 18-month community payback order. Additionally, Zelan was subjected to a three-year ban from owning or keeping any animals, a restriction that expired in 2022. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) highlighted the case as a reminder that neglect and cruelty towards animals are taken seriously by the legal system and welfare organizations alike.