ALICE MCCLYMONT'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN GLASGOW REVEALED

In a disturbing case of animal neglect that has shocked the Glasgow community, Alice McClymont, born on December 25, 1974, and residing on Ryeside Road in the Barmulloch area, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a defenseless Staffordshire bull terrier named Tia. The incident highlights the severe neglect and suffering endured by the dog, which was discovered in a dire state of health, suffering from a painful ear infection and extensive skin issues.

McClymont pleaded guilty to the charge of causing unnecessary suffering, a serious offense under animal welfare laws. The case came to light after Tia was found in a distressed condition, with her face and ears covered in lesions, hair loss, and crusty skin. One of her eyes was swollen shut due to the swelling, and she exhibited signs of significant pain and discomfort. The dog’s ears were inflamed, thickened, and emitting a foul odor, with discharge indicating a severe infection. Her condition was so advanced that veterinary examination estimated the neglect had persisted for up to six months, during which time Tia endured excruciating pain.

According to Scottish SPCA chief inspector Lara Vickery, the organization received a call in June 2019 reporting a dog at McClymont’s address suffering from allergies, hair loss, and incessant scratching. When the SSPCA officers arrived at the property, they were appalled by the state of Tia. The dog was found with a swollen face, raw skin on her head and ears, and a swollen, closed eye. The ears were crusty, painful, and thickened, with a noticeable foul smell and discharge, all indicative of a severe infection. Tia was so sensitive that she flinched when anyone attempted to touch her ears.

Further examination revealed that McClymont had attempted to manage the dog’s discomfort by placing a cone around her head and duct-taping a sock to her hind leg in an effort to prevent her from scratching herself. This evidence pointed to her awareness of the dog’s suffering, yet she allowed her to endure it for months. Once Tia was taken into the care of the Scottish SPCA and received veterinary treatment, she responded remarkably well, nearly fully recovering within just four weeks. This recovery demonstrated that her condition was manageable and that she could have been kept comfortable with proper care.

In sentencing, McClymont was fined £180 along with a £10 victim surcharge. Additionally, she received a five-year ban on keeping any animals, a restriction that will remain in effect until February 2028. Scottish SPCA officials expressed their disappointment that the ban was not longer, given the extent of Tia’s suffering, and emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership. Chief Inspector Vickery stated, “We’re pleased McClymont has received a ban but given the level of suffering Tia endured we would have liked it to have been for a longer period of time. We hope she seriously considers her ability to look after any animal in future.”

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, especially in a city like Glasgow where community awareness and intervention can make a difference in preventing such suffering.