Banned from keeping animals

A cruel Airdrie woman whose neglect of her pet dog led to the in-pain pooch suffering severe dental disease and weight loss has been banned from owning animals for three years.

Caroline McLeish was also fined £280 for causing unnecessary suffering and health complications to boxer Sasha by failing to seek veterinary treatment for the dog, who later had to be put down.

McLeish, 49, pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering under section 19 of the Animal Health & Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

The Douglas Street resident was sentenced at Airdrie Sheriff Court earlier this month.

Commenting on the investigation and court case, Scottish SPCA chief inspector John Chisholm said, “This charge was dealt as McLeish failed to provide adequate nutrition and veterinary treatment to Sasha, a female boxer who, upon vet examination, was scored with a body condition score of one-out-of-five with ribs, spine and pelvic bones easily evident from a distance.

“Sasha had inflamed and overgrown gums with evidence of a chronic bacterial infection.

“As well as this, several of her lower incisor teeth were fractured and diseased, which was obviously painful to the touch.

“Three small tumours were found on various points of her body and a veterinary exam found Sasha to have renal compromise, dental disease and hypothyroidism.

“Unfortunately, after struggling with various health issues, the decision was made to put Sasha to sleep.

“I’m happy the courts have dealt with this case, however it further highlights our push for tougher and more consistent sentencing.

“This level of neglect didn’t happen overnight and could have easily been avoided.”

suffering Boxer Sasha had to be put down following her mistreatment