Man banned from keeping dogs after cruelty case

A Linlithgow dog owner has been convicted following a Scottish SPCA investigation.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th May 2016, 16:44 BST
Updated 20th May 2016, 17:47 BST
A SSPCA investigation led to convictionA SSPCA investigation led to conviction
A SSPCA investigation led to conviction

Paul Lynch (44), of Broomyhill Place, was sentenced at Livingston Sheriff Court on Wednesday, May 18.

Lynch pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his German shepherd crossbreed dog named Ben by failing to obtain veterinary attention to investigate the cause of the weight loss and to treat his chronic dermatitis.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He was banned from owning or keeping dogs for five years and fined £800.

Commenting on the investigation and court case, Inspector Emma Phillips said, “Ben was emaciated and had difficulty walking. He weighed just 22.8kg when a dog of his breed should have been around 34kg.

“There were no underlying health issues to explain Ben’s poor body condition and the vet advised this indicated chronic malnutrition over several months.

“Ben also had chronic dermatitis, which would have caused him significant discomfort.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Sadly, the vet advised that the kindest option was to put Ben to sleep to end his pain and suffering as he would not have recovered.

“This was a tragic case and Ben would have suffered greatly due to Lynch’s failure to seek veterinary attention.

“We welcome the fact Lynch has been dealt with by the court and hope he will give serious consideration about his suitability to care for other animals in the future.”