JASON MCANDREW OF ARBROATH FINED FOR NEGLECTING DOG WITH SEVERE SKIN CONDITION

Jason Louis McAndrew, born around 1977 and residing at Marketgate, Arbroath, was convicted in 2022 for failing to properly care for his dog. The nine-year-old German Shepherd, named Mac, suffered from an agonising skin condition that was left untreated by McAndrew, leading to the dog being put to sleep to end his suffering.

McAndrew admitted to causing unnecessary suffering and neglecting Mac's health, including his injuries and skin problems. The dog had fractured teeth, an infected wound, and dermatitis. Following concerns raised by a member of the public on October 22, 2020, the Scottish SPCA was alerted and intervened.

Inspector Karen Cooper explained that Mac was taken to a veterinary surgery and then transferred to an SPCA rescue centre for further care. An initial assessment revealed wounds on his legs and around his scrotum, with the top layer of skin missing. Cooper described the wounds as very tender and infected, with a pungent smell and significant discomfort for Mac.

Further tests indicated that Mac was suffering from an autoimmune condition where his immune system was attacking his own skin. Cooper noted, “This was likely to have been a condition that built up over time and was present for months if not years.” She added, “His condition was potentially treatable and leaving it untreated caused Mac unnecessary suffering for a prolonged period.”

Later that week, McAndrew agreed to surrender Mac into the care of the Scottish SPCA. Unfortunately, veterinary advice led to the decision to humanely euthanise Mac due to the extent of his injuries. Cooper expressed her disappointment, saying, “We would have hoped for a longer ban as McAndrew was responsible for Mac's welfare and his needs were not met.”

She also criticized McAndrew’s neglect, stating, “Ignoring Mac’s condition was not the right way to handle the situation and it caused him unnecessary suffering.” The Scottish SPCA urges anyone with animal welfare concerns to contact their hotline.

McAndrew was fined £150 and received a two-year ban from keeping animals. The Scottish SPCA criticised the relatively short ban given the circumstances.