Jail for dog neglect
A Dumfries man who caused his dog horrific suffering has been jailed for two months and banned for keeping animals for 10 years.
Paul McLeod, 37, of Kenilworth Road, admitted at Dumfries Sheriff Court causing unnecessary suffering to his male German shepherd dog in February this year by failing to provide it with veterinary treatment and adequate nutrition.
Scottish SPCA Inspector Janet Proudlock said, "The dog, who was aged around 11 to 13 and named Bear, was in a terrible condition when we arrived.
"His coat was in a very poor state, his fur was severely matted and an ulcer was causing discharge from both of his ears which made him whimper in pain whenever he shook his head.
"He was also extremely underweight. He was a long-haired dog so he didn't look very thin but you could feel the bones in his ribs, spine, shoulders and hips. He also had arthritis in his hips as well.
"Sadly, the veterinary advice was Bear should be put to sleep because he was in such pain, his chances of recovery were slim and he had a very poor quality of life.
"This was a tragic and entirely unnecessary outcome. There is absolutely no excuse for such neglect and a prison sentence was entirely appropriate."