DAVE CAMERON FROM STIRLING FINED FOR ANIMAL NEGLECT INVOLVING HIGHLAND CATTLE

David Cameron, a 72-year-old farmer based in Stirling, has been penalized for neglecting five Highland cattle under his care. The incident stems from a dispute over their feeding arrangements following a breakdown in a deal with Caledonian Marts, the local cattle auction house. Cameron had initially requested that the auction house provide feed for the animals until a transporter could collect them. However, due to escalating disagreements and a deteriorating relationship with the firm, Cameron failed to ensure the cattle received proper nourishment.

After the sale, the Highland cattle remained on land owned by Caledonian Marts, but Cameron retained responsibility for their welfare. This arrangement meant that he was still accountable for their care, despite the animals being on the auction company's property. The situation came to light when authorities conducted an inspection prompted by an anonymous tip-off. During the investigation, inspectors discovered that some of the cattle were in a dire state of health, with a body condition score of just one out of five, indicating severe emaciation. Several calves appeared older than their actual age, a clear sign of underfeeding, with three animals scoring approximately 1.5 out of five and described as “lean.” Other cattle were found to be in a similarly poor condition, highlighting the neglect.

David Cameron admitted that he should have checked on the animals more frequently. Despite not receiving any payment for the sale of the cattle, he acknowledged his responsibility for their welfare. Cameron explained that he had passed by the animals regularly and had given them food, but he was unaware that the feeding had not been maintained properly. With over 50 years of experience in farming, Cameron has no prior convictions related to animal neglect. Nevertheless, the court found him guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to the cattle through acts or omissions between April and June 2023.

Ultimately, Sheriff James Gilchrist imposed a fine of £1,000 on Cameron for his role in the neglect, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare and accountability in farming practices.