A woman from Fife has been handed a £200 fine and one-year ban from owning animals following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

31-year-old Leeann Baird of Cameron Place, Kincardine, pled guilty to failing to provide adequate nutrition or veterinary treatment to her whippet cross, Preston.

Scottish SPCA inspector, Mairi Wright, said, “On 23 April 2021 we visited Leeann Baird after receiving reports of an emaciated whippet type dog at the property.

“Another person living at the property answered the door, and denied that there were any dogs at the property.

“When access was gained, seven-year-old Preston was discovered in an emaciated body condition.

“His skin and coat were also flaky, and his nails considerably overgrown.  

“It was confirmed that Preston had not received any veterinary treatment for his condition.

“We seized Preston from the property and took him for the veterinary attention he needed. When fed at the vets he ate hungrily.  

“Preston weighed just 10.7kg, and it was estimated that he had been caused unnecessary suffering for at least 28 days but most likely longer, through malnutrition. Blood tests revealed there were no underlying health conditions that could have caused this.   

“It would have been extremely clear that Preston needed veterinary attention over a prolonged period of time. Baird claimed that she had considered seeking treatment for Preston but could not afford it.

“We are pleased that Baird was handed a £200 fine and ban.

“Baird was responsible for the welfare of Preston and sadly his needs were not met.

“We understand that veterinary costs can become a worry, but ignoring Preston’s condition was not the way to handle the situation and caused him an unnecessary amount of suffering.

“We are glad that Preston finally received the treatment he needed and is now in a loving home getting the care he deserves.  

“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999. If anyone is struggling with veterinary costs, please contact the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) for advice.”