A young puppy, who was badly injured after being hit by a car, was left 'screaming in pain' after his owner failed to get help for more than two hours.
The 18-week-old German Shepherd cross, named Fatty, was found with an extremely swollen left front leg and other injuries to his feet which were caused by the vehicle strike.
Officers from the Scottish SPCA visited the animal’s owner, Luke Kildare, at his Macduff home on February 1, 2020, after being called by a member of the public.
They found the “very subdued and quiet” pup lying on the couch. Despite the animal being in obvious pain, 40-year-old Kildare continued to touch his injured leg causing him to cry out.
Kildare admitted failing to seek veterinary attention for his pet at Banff Sheriff Court on Tuesday and was handed a £750 fine. Due to him currently being in prison and unable to pay the fine, he was ordered to serve the alternative of 28 days in prison.
Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona Mckenzie said: “Fatty should have been seen by a vet immediately after the incident. Kildare’s failure to seek veterinary treatment for Fatty undoubtedly caused this young puppy immense suffering.
“Although we’re glad that Kildare has received a fine, we would have liked him to receive a ban on keeping animals due to the disregard he showed for Fatty’s well-being in this case.
“We hope he seriously reconsiders his ability to care for any animal in future. Fatty was obviously injured and suffering immense pain. His right foreleg was extremely swollen from the elbow to toes. It was more than twice the size of the left foreleg.
“There was fresh blood on the injured leg, his toenails were broken and pads on the foot were scratched. These injuries are consistent with being hit by a car which Kildare confirmed had occurred earlier that evening.
“Kildare had disregard to fatty’s injuries, he inconsiderately went to touch the affected leg and the puppy screamed in pain. Fatty had been injured and in pain for at least two hours without veterinary treatment.
“Kildare was reluctant to take his puppy for veterinary treatment or accept assistance from the Scottish SPCA to arrange this so Fatty was removed from the property to seek first aid treatment.
“The vet confirmed that Fatty’s right foreleg had been fractured as a result of being hit by the car.”
She added: “Fatty had to endure a horrendous start to his life but has since been rehomed by the Scottish SPCA where he is now in a loving home.
“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
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