JOHN STOKESLEY FROM PAISLEY FACES FINE AFTER DOG'S SUFFERING AND DEATH
John Stokesley, a professional dog walker operating under the business name Paws N Go and residing at 91 Spencer Drive in Paisley, was found guilty in connection with the severe mistreatment and subsequent death of his dog, Ziva.Born on January 13, 1969, Stokesley's actions have drawn significant concern from animal welfare authorities and the local community alike.
In 2022, Stokesley pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to Ziva, a two-year-old Rottweiler-German Shepherd cross.
The case revealed that Ziva had sustained injuries to her legs and ears, injuries that went untreated for four days.
During this period, her wounds became infected, leading to a condition known as sepsis, which ultimately proved fatal.
The dog's condition deteriorated to such an extent that she had to be euthanized due to the severity of her injuries.
The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) provided detailed insights into the case.
Inspector Gillian Dick explained that the SPCA was contacted by a veterinary practice after Stokesley brought Ziva in for treatment on November 15, 2019.
According to the inspector, Stokesley claimed that another dog at his property had attacked Ziva on November 11, 2019.
He told the veterinary staff that Ziva had a few wounds, which he had been bathing and treating at home, but that she had stopped eating and appeared to be in poor health.
When Ziva was brought into the clinic, she was unable to walk and was carried in by her owner.
The veterinarian had to examine her while she lay on the floor due to her extreme weakness.
The dog was severely dehydrated and appeared to be in shock.
Her injuries included multiple wounds, with the most critical being on her right hind leg.
This wound was necrotic, so deep that her exposed bone was visible.
Additionally, she had a deep, pus-filled wound behind her right ear.
The veterinarian diagnosed her with septic shock and multi-organ failure.
The infection in her back leg was so severe that amputation was considered, but her fragile condition meant she could not withstand anesthesia.
The heartbreaking decision was made to euthanize Ziva to prevent further suffering.
Stokesley's role as a dog walker and his responsibility for the animals in his care have come under scrutiny.
The Scottish SPCA expressed disappointment that he was not issued with a ban on keeping animals, emphasizing that his failure to respond appropriately to Ziva’s injuries led to her excruciating suffering.
Inspector Dick highlighted that, given his employment and daily responsibilities involving animals, Stokesley should have recognized the severity of Ziva’s injuries immediately.
Had he acted swiftly and sought veterinary care at the onset, Ziva might have survived and avoided such a tragic end.
In the court proceedings, Stokesley was fined £800.
However, he was not given a ban on keeping animals, a decision that has raised concerns among animal welfare advocates.
The Scottish SPCA and the community hope that this case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet care and the need for strict penalties for neglect and abuse.
Inspector Dick concluded by urging pet owners and animal carers to take immediate action when injuries occur, emphasizing that prompt veterinary attention can make the difference between life and death for animals in their care.
