Scottish SPCA

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Disappointment as no ban given for horse neglect

The Scottish SPCA has expressed disappointment after a woman who admitted neglecting her horse was not given a ban on keeping animals in court.

Hollie Dignon, 18, of Meadow Place, Bilston, pled guilty to failing to provide necessary veterinary attention and adequate nutrition for her 14 year old male thoroughbred type horse, named Barney. Dignon was admonished at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday (4 July).

Inspector Tracy McNaughton said, "This was a severe case of neglect in which Barney had been allowed to become extremely emaciated. When we offered him food, he ate ravenously.

"Following our investigation Dignon has been convicted of causing an animal unnecessary suffering and now has a criminal record.

"We had recommended that a ban on keeping animals would be appropriate in this case, which is an option open to the courts under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

"It is very disappointing that no ban has been given as, in our opinion, Dignon has demonstrated she is unfit to ensure the welfare of any animal and we would have serious concerns for any animals in her care in the future.

"Thankfully, Barney was rehabilitated at our Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre and has since been rehomed to a loving new owner."