CONVICTED (2018) | Beata Teresa Rutkowska, born c. 1967, of Alexander Terrace, Tillydrone, Aberdeen AB24 2RF – failed to treat an ulcerated wound on her elderly dog’s paw.
Beata Rutkowska, who is originally from Gdansk, Poland, pleaded guilty to failing to provide veterinary treatment for 12-year-old Oscar, whose ailments included a chronic skin lesion on his paw that was ulcerated and ruptured.
The offence, which took place between February 1 and May 26 2017, came to light following an investigation by the Scottish SPCA.
Rutkowska’s neglect caused Oscar to be unable to stand on the paw, and the Scottish SPCA said the “omission of pain relief” caused “unnecessary suffering, pain and discomfort”.
Scottish SPCA Inspector Alison Simpson said: “When I initially visited the property and saw Oscar, it was clear that he was struggling and in pain.
“The wound was oozing constantly and there was a putrid smell coming from his paw.
“Oscar had clearly not been able to put weight on his paw for quite some time as his claws were overgrown and considerably longer than those on his other paw.
“He also kept licking the wound which no doubt aggravated it further.
“Whilst investigating it became apparent that Oscar had not seen a vet for at least four years.
“Unfortunately, due to the extent of his condition and the risks associated with amputation in dogs as old as Oscar, the owner chose to euthanise following veterinary advice.
“Whilst I’m happy that Rutkowska has been dealt with by the courts and handed a significant ban, it is clear that Oscar’s suffering could have been entirely prevented.”
Sentencing | £700 fine. A 10-year ban on owning all animals (expires May 2028).