CONVICTED (2022) | Daryl Hill, born c. 1989, of 26 Beauly Crescent, Dundee DD3 0DF – left two dogs to starve almost to death.
Hill admitted two charges of failing to give adequate care and treatment to two dogs discovered at his home in an “emaciated” state.
Scottish SPCA officers visited Hill’s home after receiving a report of neglected dogs and found Staffordshire bull terrier Kaiser, aged eight, and German shepherd Chaos, two.
SSPCA inspector Robert Baldie, said: ‘Hill was advised of the reason for our visit and was asked to if he could bring the dog to the door.
‘He returned carrying an eight-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier named Kaiser which appeared seriously underweight.
‘Hill was asked to place the dog on the ground in the front garden and Kaiser was so emaciated he could barely stay on his feet.
‘The dog tried to eat something lying in the garden and Hill pushed him away telling him to stop.
‘Kaiser then fell over onto his side and could not get back to his feet without the aid of Hill.
‘We then asked to see his other dog, a two-year-old German shepherd named Chaos.
‘He was brought to the door and was also seriously underweight but was bright and alert.
‘We were extremely concerned for the welfare of both dogs, and immediately removed them to be transported for a veterinary examination.
‘At the examination, both dogs were extremely emaciated and shook when standing still.’
Hill had claimed Chaos belonged to a friend – but admitted Kaiser was his.
His animals are now recovering well from their ordeal with proper care and attention.
Sheriff Gregor Murray said he had considered a prison sentence but was convinced he could be given a community-based order instead.
He said: “This is an appalling offence.
“These animals could have died.
“There is a public expectation that those who own animals look after them.
“You have been remorseful and it has been brought to my attention you have mental health difficulties.
“Therefore I am convinced you could be subject to a non-custodial sentence.
“I am going to disqualify you from owning animals for a period of three years also.”
Speaking after the sentencing hearing, Inspector Baldie added: ‘The only treatment required was a proper diet.
‘Kaiser and Chaos would have taken months to reach this condition and Hill seemed to be aware that the dogs were clearly in poor condition.
‘By feeding a good basic diet he could have easily alleviated the suffering caused to both dogs.
‘With the correct feeding regime, there has been a marked improvement in both the dogs’ condition.
‘We are pleased Hill has pled guilty and received this sentence.
‘The ban will ensure no other animals will suffer like Kaiser and Chaos did, although we would have liked the ban to be for a longer period of time.’
Sentencing: 180 days of unpaid work. Three-year ban (expires February 2025).
If you cannot look after them, then don’t get a Dog in the first place. If you start to struggle you also need to know when to ask for help. There are Dog Rescues and Charities out there.