Ten-year ban for former Methil woman guilty of neglecting dogs

A Fife woman who “huckled” her German Shepherd by tying its leg and neck together with a bandage has been banned from keeping pets for 10 years.

Juliet Watson, formerly of Lime Grove in Methil but who now lives in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, appeared for sentencing at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court yesterday.

The 42-year-old previously pled guilty to charges relating to the neglect of pets at an address in Methil between June and September 2016.

She admitted causing unnecessary suffering to three dogs – a German shepherd named Sasha, Casper the Doberman and a Rottweiler named Diesel.

Watson failed to provide appropriate care and treatment for the animals, causing them to become emaciated due to a lack of adequate nutrition.

She also accepted that she had failed to provide veterinary treatment for a variety of health conditions which resulted in the animals suffering muscle wastage, cardiac complications, stress and overgrown nails.

Watson used a bandage to tie Sasha’s leg and neck together, restricting her ability to move.

She also admitted failing to meet the needs required by the dogs.

Inspectors from the Scottish SPCA found urine and faeces alongside domestic debris in the house.

They also found a lack of light, resting areas, poor ventilation and a lack of water.

Sheriff James Williamson said: “Given the background and how it came to pass that you found yourself guilty of these offences, I have no doubt that you need direction.”

She was also placed under 12 months of supervision.