A man who left his dog suffering with “horrendous” facial injuries has been banned from owning and keeping any animals for ten years.
Liam Stevenson, from Alloa, pled guilty to failing to obtain veterinary treatment for his dog’s horrific injuries which included open wounds on his cheeks and an exposed jaw bone.
Patterdale Terrier Scooter was left with the horrific injuries to his face which was made worse by the lack of vet treatment.
The terrier’s jaw bone was exposed, had other facial and body wounds and was believed to have been suffering for a significant period of time.
Stevenson, 29, was also ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid community service to be carried out within the next 6 months when he was sentenced at Alloa Sherriff Court on Thursday 25 July.
Our Special Investigation Unit began investigating Stevenson in February last year after a receiving a report he had left his dog with horrific injuries which were untreated.
A Special Investigations Unit Officer said: “Due to the immediate and real concern for the welfare of the dog being kept the premises were searched.
“While searching we found Scooter within the hallway at the back door in a dog crate.
“He was shaking, whimpering and was clearly in distress. He had very clear and visible open wounds on either side of the underside of his bottom jaw through which you could see its lower jaw bone and bottom teeth.
“The wounds were fresh, seeping and smelt of decaying flesh – it was horrendous.
“The dog was removed from the house due to the immediate concerns for his welfare, and taken to an independent vets practice for assessment and treatment.
“The vet found severe extensive wounds to his face, and multiple more superficial wounds around his body. There were also multiple scars over his body and head indicating he had sustained many wounds over a prolonged period of time.
“The most extensive full-thickness wounds were to the underside of his jaw on both sides, with areas of the jaw visible. In two areas there were holes in his cheeks allowing the oral cavity to be viewed with the mouth shut.
“In our experience these types of injuries can be consistent with badger baiting as badgers have incredible jaw strength. As a result, the injuries that they typically inflict are crushing or tearing injuries rather than small and discreet puncture wounds.
“Classically face-to-face combat will result in these types of injury from the tearing action of the badger’s teeth and claws.
We are pleased at the sentencing today. Scooter had suffered extensively and over a prolonged period of time, without receiving immediate veterinary care for his wounds.
“The specialised veterinary work undertaken by our vets resulted in the dog’s recovery and he has since be rehomed and living the life he deserves.
“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
