IONA BAFF PLEARN WOMAN FACES ANIMAL NEGLECT CHARGES IN SCOTLAND

In a disturbing case of animal neglect, Iona Baff, a woman residing in Plean, was found to have left two cats alone inside her home for over a week. The conditions within her residence were described as utterly deplorable, with the environment contaminated by faeces and household waste strewn across the floors and surfaces. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) and local authorities responded to complaints and conducted a thorough inspection of the property.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Ms. Baff had failed to provide her animals with a suitable living environment, as mandated under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006. Specifically, she was found to have neglected her duty to ensure the cats had access to a clean and healthy space, free from the filth and waste that had accumulated in her home between May 10 and 18, 2021. The inspection uncovered a scene of chaos: the kitchen was inaccessible due to household items and rubbish piled high on the floor and work surfaces, making entry impossible. Faeces were scattered around the house, and a fly infestation was evident, further highlighting the unsanitary conditions.

Two cats were discovered during the inspection. One was found in the bathroom, where faeces and a urine-soaked litter tray were present. Despite the neglectful environment, the cats appeared to be in reasonable health and were secured for transportation to a safe location. Efforts to contact Ms. Baff during the inspection proved unsuccessful, as she was not reachable by phone or other means.

Regarding her personal circumstances, her solicitor explained that Ms. Baff had been involved in a long-standing relationship that had recently ended at the time of the offence. She had been staying elsewhere during this period but has since taken steps to improve her situation and