AIRDIRE WOMAN CAROLINE MCLEISH SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING DOG SASHA IN SCOTLAND

In a case that has drawn significant attention from animal welfare advocates, Caroline McLeish, a resident of Douglas Street in Airdrie, has been found guilty of neglecting her dog, Sasha, leading to severe suffering and ultimately her euthanasia. Born around 1969, McLeish, who is also known by the name Caroline Tolmie, faced charges after failing to seek necessary veterinary care for her canine companion, which resulted in the animal's dire health condition and starvation.

McLeish's neglect was brought to light when the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) intervened. The investigation revealed that Sasha, a female Boxer, was suffering from advanced dental disease, which had gone untreated for an extended period. An animal expert involved in the case described Sasha’s condition as extremely painful, noting that her gums were inflamed and overgrown, with evidence of a chronic bacterial infection. The expert also observed that Sasha’s teeth were fractured, with three tumours present, alongside kidney issues and hypothyroidism, all of which contributed to her deteriorating health.

According to the Scottish SPCA Chief Inspector John Chisholm, the examination of Sasha showed a body condition score of just 1 out of 5, indicating severe malnutrition. Her ribs, spine, and pelvic bones were easily visible from a distance, a clear sign of neglect and starvation. The inspector emphasized that the neglect was not an isolated incident but a result of prolonged failure to provide proper nutrition and veterinary treatment.

Following the discovery, Sasha received medical treatment, but her condition was so critical that the decision was ultimately made to humanely euthanize her. Inspector Chisholm expressed his relief that the court had addressed the case, but also highlighted the importance of stricter sentencing for animal cruelty. He pointed out that such neglect does not happen overnight and could have been prevented with proper care and attention.

In court, McLeish was sentenced to a £280 fine and received a three-year ban on owning animals. However, this ban expired in November 2021. The case underscores ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the region and the need for consistent enforcement of animal protection laws to prevent similar cases in the future.