A frail eight-week-old puppy was put down on Christmas Day after being left to suffer by its breeder, a court has heard.
Angus-based traveller Frank James (45) sold the lemon and white cocker spaniel to an Aberdeen woman on Christmas Eve despite it being near to death.
Appearing at Arbroath Sheriff Court on Tuesday, James, of Coronation Way, Montrose, admitted causing the animal unnecessary suffering at his home on December 24.
He further admitted failing to provide adequate treatment for a worm infestation and diarrhoea and failing to provide it with adequate hydration and nutrition.
The court heard the customer who bought the dog contacted the Scottish SPCA after becoming concerned about its condition.
Depute fiscal Hazel Anderson said officers from the charity made inquiries and traced James, who initially cooperated but then became ”angry and objectionable” and asked them to leave.
She added: ”The puppy was dehydrated and had a crusty nose. Vets administered fluids and further treatment for worms and diarrhoea. At 5am the dog was put to sleep.”
During the course of inquiries it was discovered James was running a business selling puppies and regularly advertised them for sale. Defence agent Nick Markowski said the dog breeder was a member of the travelling community and had raised the puppy as one of a litter of six.
Sheriff Peter Paterson deferred sentence until November 6 to find out on what scale James had been selling puppies.