An evil owner who 'violently bet up' his dog at his home in West Lothian has been slapped with a 10-year-ban on keeping pets.
Mark McGregor left his seven-month-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross, Murdo, with 'large, swollen lumps' on his head following a string of brutal attacks which took place last year.
The 34-year-old, from the village of Polbeth, was snared after witnesses spotted him 'violently strike' the dog in his back garden, and reported the cruel act to SSPCA officers.
On March 5, 2021, charity inspectors attended McGregor's property to investigate the claims, which they described as 'very graphic and serious in nature'.
Upon arrival, they found the pup with serious head injuries and showing signs of previous beatings. The wounded pooch also appeared terrified of McGregor - cowering and urinating on the floor whenever he approached him.
Murdo was immediately seized from the property and rushed to the vets, where medics uncovered damage consistent with the traumatic injury reported to the charity by the caller.
On October 3, 2022 at Livingston Sheriff Court, McGregor pled guilty to striking his dog, Murdo. On November 25, at the same court, he received a decade-long ban on owning, keeping and working with animals. He was also given a 108-day restriction of liberty order.
Murdo has since found a loving home, having spent a period of time at a SSPCA rescue and rehoming centre to fully rest and recover from his traumatic ordeal.
Fiona Thorburn, Scottish SPCA inspector, said: “When we attended McGregor's home, it was immediately apparent that Murdo had a noticeable swelling on his head. He approached me wagging his tail and jumping up in a friendly manner but when McGregor approached him, he appeared scared. He cowered and urinated on the floor.
"I advised McGregor of my concerns for his dog Murdo’s welfare and that veterinary attention must be sought. Murdo was then removed under section 32 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 to be taken for a veterinary examination.
“The veterinary examination uncovered damage consistent with the traumatic injury reported to us by the witnesses, leaving Murdo with a large lump on his head.
“Murdo was transported to one of our rescue and rehoming centres for ongoing care and to ensure his welfare. Thanks to the care of our centre, Murdo has made a good recovery and has since found a loving home.
“We are pleased that McGregor has received a ban given the severity of the beating that Murdo sustained. If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
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