A Dunfermline man who admitted neglecting his Scottie dog, which had to be put down, has been banned from owning dogs for eight years after a Scottish SPCA investigation.
A vet decided the “only humane decision” was to end the pet’s suffering.
Brian Sneddon, 41, of Broomhead Drive, pleaded guilty to failing to provide necessary veterinary attention for his female dog when he appeared at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.
He was sentenced to a 90-hour community payback order.
Scottish SPCA senior inspector John Chisholm said the dog had very obvious discharge in both ears and was severely matted. In all, 780g of hair had to be removed from her.
“The vet found both ears to be painfully infected and confirmed she had been caused unnecessary distress and suffering,” Mr Chisholm told the court.
“The vet also advised it would have taken several months for her to deteriorate to such an extent.”
Normally ear infections are treatable but in this case it was so chronic that the dog did not respond to treatment and the vet advised it was unlikely she would ever recover.
“Sadly she was in such pain and distress, the vet had to make the kindest and only humane decision to end her suffering by putting her to sleep,” the witness added.
“This was a tragic case which could have been avoided, had Sneddon sought veterinary treatment when her ear infection first arose.
“I am pleased Sneddon has been banned from owning dogs for eight years. We would hope he will give serious consideration as to whether he has the ability to care for another dog, should he decide to take on another when his ban is over.”