The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Five-year ban for Fife man who neglected dog
Pet had skin and ear infections and overgrown claws
A dog owner who admitted neglecting his pet has been banned from keeping any animal for five years.
Gordon Davey, 30, of Sherbrooke Road, Rosyth, admitted that between June 1 and August 31 last year at his then home in Islay Road, Dunfermline, being a person responsible for a dog, he caused it unnecessary suffering by failing to provide adequate care and attention for the animal, which was suffering from skin and ear infections and over-grown nails.
Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said: “The dog involved is called Ozzy. It’s a 13-yearold staffordshire bull terrier-type dog.”
She said animal welfare officers attended the accused’s address regarding reports of dog neglect. The dog was found to have scabs and his underside was bald due to a skin condition.
It was reluctant to stand up because of the condition of its paws.
The animal was taken to a vet where it was examined and it was felt the suffering had been unnecessary. However, the prognosis for recovery was good, the depute fiscal added.
When questioned about the dog, Davey said he tried using baby oil on its skin condition.
Solicitor James Moncrieff said at the time of the incident Davey had been living with his partner and their seven children.
“He was unable to work after injuring his hand and was not earning money,” he said. “He had no funds to take it to the vet. He had the dog since it was a pup and is very remorseful for how far things got. He took his eye off the ball.”
Sheriff Craig McSherry imposed 180 hours of unpaid work and banned Davey from keeping any animal for five years.
SSPCA Inspector Nicola Liddell said: “Upon entering the property, it was immediately apparent that Ozzy was in a very poor, neglected state.
“He was suffering from a chronic skin condition affecting his body, limbs, and face.
“His coat and skin was covered in scabs, resulting in hair loss to his paws and underside, with weeping pustules and scabs on the exposed skin.
“Ozzy’s claws were grossly overgrown, curving round towards his pads and he was very reluctant to stand, even with encouragement and treats.
“Further veterinary examination confirmed that Ozzy had been suffering for a considerable length of time, with it estimated that the claw growth would have taken at least nine months.”