Scottish SPCA

Shock as no ban given in court

The Scottish SPCA has expressed their shock after a woman who allowed her dogs to become severely emaciated received no ban on keeping animals.

Lauren McMeechan, 23, then residing at High Street, Linlithgow, was admonished at Livingston Sheriff Court on Thursday (9 February). She had previously pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to her two dogs by failing to provide adequate nutrition or veterinary attention between an unknown date and 27 May 2010.

When Inspectors visited McMeechan's property they found a female labrador and male Irish setter type dog in poor bodily condition, with their ribs, spine and hip bones clearly visible.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, "Following our investigation McMeechan has been convicted of causing her two dogs unnecessary suffering and as a result now has a criminal record.

"However, we are shocked that no ban on keeping animals has been imposed by the court.

"The vet who examined both dogs said it was one of the worst cases of starvation he had ever seen and we believe a life ban would have been entirely appropriate in this instance.

"In cases like this we always seeking a ban, which is an option open to the courts under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act of 2006.

"Not only is it important in cases such as this, where we believe the offender has demonstrated they are unfit to care for animals, it also sends out an important message that owning animal is a privilege and not a right.

"Thankfully, both dogs were taken into our care and after prolonged rehabilitation have found a loving home together."

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