A north-east man, who left a dog to starve in a squalid caravan and caused it “unimaginable suffering” has been banned from keeping animals for life.
Peter Reid kept his pets in the filthy mobile home and officers from the Scottish SPCA found a dead Staffordshire bull terrier when they investigated the premises.
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Russia was discovered along a Labrador-Staffordshire bull terrier cross named Flash at Peterhead Recycling Centre on March 30 last year.
Reid has previously pleaded guilty to two charges of causing the animals unnecessary suffering by act or omission.
The 29-year-old appeared at Peterhead Sheriff Court yesterday for sentencing and was given a lifelong order restricting him from keeping any pets.
Last night, the SSPCA official who responded to a call about the dogs revealed what kind of scene awaited her.
Inspector Watson, who did not give her first name, said there was an “overpowering” smell as she entered the caravan.
Ms Watson said: “When I entered the caravan, the floor and soft furnishings were covered in faeces and urine and the smell was overpowering, while the carpet squelched when any steps were taken.
“There was a Labrador and Staffordshire bull terrier cross, Flash, standing on the sofa area. He was clearly distressed and was barking, lunging and pacing around.
“We noticed Russia, lying in the corner of the sofa area and he was sadly deceased. Flash seemed to be protecting Russia.
“The veterinary post mortem examination showed that Russia was emaciated as a result of starvation and dehydration.
“This would have caused Russia unimaginable suffering and for his body to get into this state from starvation would have taken three or four weeks.”
Defence agent Sam Milligan said Reid was on a “downward spiral” at the time and was living in the caravan.
He said his client realised he should have taken action to save the Russia’s life.
Mr Milligan said: “He does accept he should have done something about the dog and it is not the case he is hiding behind his responsibilities.”
Sheriff Christine McCrossan also placed Reid, of Leask Avenue, Peterhead, on a two-year supervision order and he was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.