Scottish SPCA

One year ban for dog neglect

An Aberdeenshire man responsible for his dog's gross neglect has been banned from keeping animals for one year following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

Ian McHattie, 23, then residing at Prunier Place, Peterhead, was sentenced at the town's Sheriff Court on Thursday (9 February) and given 150 hours community service. McHattie was also ordered to pay the animal welfare charity £500 in compensation.

McHattie had previously pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his female Staffordshire bull terrier, named Gabby, by failing to provide adequate nutrition.

On visiting McHattie's property in August 2011, our Inspector found the one year old dog in a severe state of emaciation and with no food or water available.

Scottish SPCA Inspector Fiona McKenzie said, "Following our investigation McHattie has been convicted of causing an animal unnecessary suffering and now has a criminal record.

"A one year ban on keeping animals has been imposed and as a result Gabby will not be returned to his care.

"While we have to accept the decisions of the courts, given the nature of this case we would have supported a life ban.

"Poor Gabby was in a horrendous state of emaciation, weighing under 9kgs when a dog of her breed and age should be around 16kgs.

"McHattie failed to provide her with the diet she needed and there is no doubt Gabby suffered a great deal. When I offered her water she drank so fast I feared she would make herself sick.

"Thankfully, Gabby has since recovered in our care and we can now find her the loving home she deserves."

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