ANNE DICK FROM MACHLINE CONVICTED FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT IN TARBOULTON

Anne McCrae Dick, born circa 1949 and residing at Rowanmyle House, Tarbolton, Mauchline KA5 5LU, was convicted in 2022 of neglecting a donkey and a pony. She pleaded guilty to failing to provide essential farriery treatment and veterinary care for her animals. Her sentence consisted of a £500 fine, and she was not banned from owning animals.

An investigation conducted by the Scottish SPCA uncovered that the animals had been suffering and in extreme pain for a period of up to nine months.

The pony, named Ebony, was so severely neglected that she had to be euthanized to end her suffering. The donkey, called Annie, was rescued and is now recovering, with plans to rehome her.

SSPCA Inspector Caitlin Rea recounted the incident: “On October 22, 2021, we attended Anne McCrae Dick’s property after a report about a pony with overgrown, curling hooves. When we arrived, there was no answer at the door, so a calling card was left. A few days later, we spoke to Mrs Dick by phone and advised her to arrange an emergency appointment with a farrier immediately.

“Despite multiple calls and voicemails urging her to confirm she had booked the appointment, we received no response. We returned on November 2, 2021, but still found no answer. We observed a black Shetland pony and a grey miniature donkey grazing in the field. Upon closer inspection, we noticed the donkey’s front feet were severely overgrown, and the pony was reluctant to walk, sweating and unwilling to graze, indicating pain.

“When we finally made contact with Mrs Dick, she claimed she was on holiday and had not yet arranged a farrier but intended to do so upon her return. She refused veterinary attendance for her animals and terminated the call when advised that an independent vet would be called for urgent treatment. The animals were transported for veterinary care, with Ebony given pain relief.

“Both animals were diagnosed with chronic laminitis, a highly painful condition damaging the tissues connecting the hoof wall to the pedal bone. Ebony’s vital signs showed elevated heart and respiratory rates. Further examination revealed Annie, later renamed Diamond, was suffering from loose and decaying teeth, as well as ulcerated gums caused by severe dental overgrowths.

“It was estimated that Ebony and Annie had been suffering for six to nine months due to the extent of their neglect. Both required emergency treatment for their feet and dental issues. Unfortunately, Ebony’s condition was so severe that she had to be euthanized.

“Diamond, the donkey, is now receiving care at one of our rescue and rehoming centres. After treatment, she is now ready to find her forever home.

“Given the severity of the neglect, this outcome is very disappointing. It is also concerning and frustrating that there are no current restrictions preventing Mrs Dick from owning or caring for animals in the future. Ebony and Annie’s suffering could have been avoided if their owner had acted responsibly and sought proper farriery and veterinary treatment.”