WILLIAM DOBBIE'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL ABUSE IN BATHGATE AND LIVINGSTON REVEALED

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Bathgate and Livingston, William Dobbie, born on September 26, 1986, has been found guilty of neglecting and mistreating his dogs, leading to severe suffering and health issues for the animals involved.

Dobbie, who previously resided on Dundas Street in Bathgate with the postal code EH48 and more recently lived at Deanswood Park, Deans, Livingston, EH54 8NZ, was responsible for the dire condition of three dogs named Mitzi, Sugar, and Kane. The neglect was so severe that the dogs were left to starve to the point where their bones were visibly protruding through their skin, a clear indication of extreme malnutrition and neglect.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) became aware of the situation in October 2016 after receiving a formal complaint about the treatment of Dobbie’s animals. Following this, inspectors from the charity coordinated with police officers to gain access to Dobbie’s residence. The inspection revealed appalling conditions that underscored the extent of the neglect.

Inspector Jenni Surgeon, who was present during the investigation, described the scene: “On entering the property, I discovered a Staffordshire Bull Terrier confined in a cage behind the door with no access to food or water. She was extremely thin, with her bones clearly protruding through her skin. The cage was filled with large quantities of faeces, some of which had developed mold, indicating it had not been cleaned for a significant period.”

She further explained, “The interior of the property was heavily contaminated with the smell of feces throughout, creating an unhygienic environment that posed serious health risks to the animals. The property’s unsanitary conditions increased the likelihood of injury, disease, and illness among the animals housed there.”

Inspectors also found two Jack Russell Terriers wandering inside the house, both severely underweight. Their legs and lower abdomen showed staining, most likely caused by lying in their own urine and feces for extended periods. The neglect was evident and deeply concerning.

Following the investigation, Dobbie was brought before the court and pleaded guilty to charges of failing to provide adequate nutrition and veterinary care for his dogs. Specifically, he was found to have neglected to treat their flea infestations and to have left them in a state of severe malnutrition.

The court sentenced Dobbie to a five-month restriction of liberty order, which limited his freedom and ability to care for animals. Additionally, he was banned from owning or keeping any animals for a period of three years, a ban that expired in July 2020. The authorities expressed their relief that justice had been served and emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Inspector Surgeon concluded with a note of hope: “Thankfully, the dogs have now received proper veterinary treatment and have made a full recovery. We hope this case serves as a reminder of the importance of proper animal care and the consequences of neglect.”