A man from West Lothian has been handed a 10-year ban on owning, keeping and working with animals following a Scottish SPCA investigation. He has also been given a 108-day restriction of liberty order.
34-year-old Mark McGregor of Langside Drive, Polbeth, pled guilty to striking his dog, Murdo, at Livingston Sheriff Court on 3 October 2022 and sentenced on 25 November at the same court.
Scottish SPCA inspector, Fiona Thorburn, said, “On 5 March 2021, we attended the property of Mark McGregor following a report from witnesses that he had been seen violently striking his dog in his back garden. The information surrounding the attack carried out on his dog was very graphic and of a serious nature.
“The caller had concerns that the dog, a seven-month old male, tan and white Staffordshire bull terrier cross called Murdo, had been beaten previously as he had been seen with swollen lumps on his head.
“When we attended, it was immediately apparent that Murdo had a noticeable swelling on his head. He approached me wagging his tail and jumping up in a friendly manner but when McGregor approached him, he appeared scared. He cowered and urinated on the floor.”
Inspector Thorburn advised McGregor of her concerns for his dog Murdo’s welfare and that veterinary attention must be sought. Murdo was then removed under section 32 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 to be taken for a veterinary examination.
“The veterinary examination uncovered damage consistent with the traumatic injury reported to us by the witnesses, leaving Murdo with a large lump on his head.
“Murdo was transported to one of our rescue and rehoming centres for ongoing care and to ensure his welfare.
“Thanks to the care of our centre, Murdo has made a good recovery and has since found a loving home.
“We are pleased that McGregor has received a ban given the severity of the beating that Murdo sustained.
“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
