ALLANA THOMSON FROM KIRKCALDY FINED FOR CRUELTY TO DOG IN BLACKCRAIGS

A woman residing in Kirkcaldy has been subjected to a series of legal penalties after being found guilty of neglecting her dog, Willow, in her Blackcraigs home. The court proceedings, which took place at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court, resulted in Allana Thomson, aged 38, being ordered to pay a fine of £240. Additionally, she received a 24-month ban from owning or caring for any animals and was mandated to contribute a £20 victim surcharge.

The case against Thomson was brought to light after a series of disturbing reports and investigations by the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). On October 24, Thomson was convicted of failing to provide the basic needs of her collie, Willow, on a consistent basis, which raised serious concerns about her ability to care for animals.

According to Scottish SPCA inspector Stephanie Ross, the initial call that prompted the investigation was received on July 30, 2022. A concerned member of the public contacted authorities after noticing suspicious activity at Thomson’s residence in Blackcraigs, Kirkcaldy. The caller expressed concern because Thomson had recently acquired a dog, yet there was no evidence of the animal leaving the premises, leading to suspicions about the dog's welfare.

When SPCA officers arrived at the property, Thomson claimed that she had only recently obtained the dog from someone she described as abusive. However, when asked for details about the dog's origin and name, Thomson was unable to provide clear answers, claiming she could not remember. The officers advised her on proper animal care and left the scene, but concerns persisted.

Less than a week later, on August 5, the same member of the public contacted the SPCA again. This time, they reported hearing distressing noises coming from Thomson’s flat. Witnesses described hearing the dog repeatedly throwing herself against the door and attempting to claw her way out. The dog appeared visibly terrified, with her tail tucked tightly between her legs, indicating severe distress.

Further disturbing reports emerged when two separate witnesses observed Thomson kicking her dog. One of these witnesses, who was passing by in a vehicle, was so distressed by the incident that they stopped to intervene, telling Thomson to stop her aggressive behavior. Despite this, Thomson became aggressive herself and continued to kick the dog in front of the witness.

Following these reports, authorities obtained a warrant to search Thomson’s residence. When officers arrived, she refused to cooperate and became verbally abusive, refusing entry to the property. Nevertheless, the warrant was executed, and the Scottish SPCA team removed Willow from Thomson’s care due to immediate concerns for her welfare.

Willow was subsequently examined by a veterinarian, who noted that the dog was extremely nervous and fearful. Although no physical injuries were evident at the time of examination, her behavior suggested she had endured traumatic experiences that made her wary of human contact. Fortunately, with the support of an animal rescue and rehoming center, Willow gradually regained her trust and began to recover from her ordeal.

While the court acknowledged the positive steps taken to rehabilitate Willow, it also recognized the severity of her suffering and Thomson’s apparent volatility. The Scottish SPCA expressed disappointment that the ban imposed on Thomson was only for two years, stating that they would have preferred a longer period given her behavior. Inspector Ross emphasized that Thomson’s actions demonstrated a lack of understanding and empathy, noting her unwillingness to engage with authorities and her apparent underestimation of the seriousness of her neglect.

The Scottish SPCA encourages anyone concerned about animal welfare to contact their confidential helpline at 03000 999 999, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and prompt action in preventing cruelty and neglect.