DAVID MCSTAY'S CRUELTY IN CARLUKE: ELDERLY LURCHER'S ORDEAL REVEALED

In a case that has shocked animal welfare advocates, wildlife persecutor David Andrew McStay, a resident of Carluke, has been found guilty of neglecting a senior dog in his care. Born on July 28, 1988, McStay’s address at the time of the incident was 2 Eastfield Road, Carluke ML8 4PA. The case centers around his failure to provide necessary veterinary treatment for an aging lurcher named Cassie, who was suffering from severe dental disease.

Despite the evident neglect, McStay was only subjected to a modest fine and was not prohibited from owning animals in the future. This leniency has sparked criticism from animal welfare groups, who argue that his actions demonstrated a blatant disregard for the well-being of his elderly pet. McStay’s social media activity, which includes 'likes' on multiple lamping and pest control groups, further underscores his involvement in activities associated with wildlife persecution.

The prosecution was initiated after an investigation by the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA). McStay pleaded guilty to charges of animal cruelty, specifically for neglecting the health of Cassie, who was 13 years old at the time. The neglect had led to her requiring the removal of 16 teeth following a veterinary examination.

According to Scottish SPCA inspector Heather Lawson, the incident came to light on November 18, 2020, when a member of the public contacted the SPCA helpline out of concern for several dogs at McStay’s residence. An inspection was carried out at the property, revealing the extent of Cassie’s suffering. The veterinary team discovered that she was suffering from severe periodontal disease, pyorrhoea, and thick calculus buildup, conditions that had likely caused her significant pain for approximately a year.

The severity of her dental issues necessitated urgent surgical intervention, during which 16 of her teeth were extracted. Despite the clear signs of neglect, McStay claimed to be unaware of Cassie’s condition. However, inspectors noted that anyone responsible for her daily care would have been able to detect her suffering through smell and observation.

Heather Lawson emphasized that a responsible owner would have sought veterinary treatment much sooner, preventing the prolonged pain and suffering Cassie endured. While she expressed relief that McStay received a fine, she also voiced disappointment that he was not banned from keeping animals, given the level of neglect involved. Lawson concluded by urging McStay to reflect on his capacity to care for animals in the future, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.