CONVICTED (2016) | Kevin Bartley, born 25 October 1992, of Darwin Place, Clydebank G81 4LE – failed to seek veterinary treatment for his dog’s chronic skin condition.

Bartley admitted causing unnecessary suffering to the dog, named Storm by failing to provide ongoing veterinary attention for a chronic skin condition, causing her pain, distress and intense itching and poor quality of life. Very sadly, Storm was put to sleep on welfare grounds as she was so unwell.

Bartley’s solicitor told the court that his client “was residing with his partner. It was both him and his partner who cared for [Storm]. The skin condition came to light and both him and his partner were giving her medication.

“From growing up he was in a family home with a dog. When he was residing with his then partner, they purchased a dog and it may be he would consider having a family dog in the future. It’s not something he is considering at the moment.

“The dog was in his possession from 16 months old. Throughout that time, she was otherwise a fit dog and cared for in an appropriate manner, other than this failure over a six-week period. “

Bartley told the investigating officer he had been applying Diprobase [cream] to the dog albeit not the medication required.

The sheriff told Bartley he was satisfied the correct punishment was a fine. He said: “I’m not persuaded I need to make a disqualification because the omission was for a short period of time when in a difficult personal situation.

Speaking after the case, Scottish SPCA Inspector Jen Connolly said: “We respect the decisions of the courts and appreciate there are many factors taken into account when passing sentence, however we are disappointed in the sentence handed to Bartley.

“Storm’s condition could have been easily controlled by veterinary treatment which Bartley failed to provide.

“We hope that Bartley will give serious consideration about his suitability to care for other animals in the future.”

Sentence: fined £250; NO ban

Clydebank Post