A MAN has been jailed for six months after he left two dogs without food or water and suffering from infection.
James Thomson, 36, was put behind bars at Dundee Sheriff Court on Monday after admitting a charge against him.
He failed to give two dogs sufficient food and water or treatment for conjunctivitis.
Thomson, of Clepington Street, admitted mistreating a one-year-old male rottweiler called Bronson and a seven-year-old female rottweiler called Jakira, between January 1 and February 2, both last year, at his home address.
He admitted that, while being responsible for the dogs, he caused them unnecessary suffering by failing to provide adequate nutrition and water for them, failed to make arrangements for their welfare, and failed to provide treatment for conjunctivitis from which they were suffering.
The case was investigated by the Scottish SPCA. Senior Inspector Don Wilson said: “Jakira was severely underweight, while Bronson was in a state of emaciation and was weak and unsteady on his feet. The dogs’ ribs, shoulders and hip bones could be seen and felt through their skin and both were suffering from eye infections.
“Within the property, the stench of dried faeces and urine was overpowering.
“There were empty dog food bowls on the floor and the dogs had no access to water. Following a veterinary examination, it was concluded that both dogs were clearly underweight, suffering from malnutrition and conjunctivitis.
“We welcome the six-month prison sentence given to Thomson as this sends out a clear message that animal neglect is an offence and the courts will deal with those responsible.”
One of the dogs was later rehomed. The other has since been put down.
Libby Anderson, policy advisor for the animal charity OneKind, said Thomson should be banned from owning animals for life, adding: “This is clearly abhorrent behaviour.”
One of the dogs that was left with conjunctivitis as a result of mistreatment. Right: The Scottish SPCA’s Don Wilson and Libby Anderson of OneKind.
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