ABERDEEN COUPLE SENTENCED FOR KEEPING 76 ANIMALS IN HORRIFIC CONDITIONS AND GETTING LIFETIME BAN
A couple, John and Victoria Symons, kept a total of 76 animals in dire and unsanitary living conditions within a two-bedroom flat in Aberdeenshire.During police and animal welfare inspections, officers discovered dogs, cats, kittens, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, a parrot, and various other small birds residing amidst their own excrement and in poor health.
The investigation revealed that the animals were subjected to neglect, with cats hidden in cupboards and under laundry, and animals living in unhygienic and distressing environments.
John Symons, aged 41, had previously admitted to multiple charges related to causing unnecessary suffering and neglect of their animals at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
His wife, Victoria, aged 36, pleaded guilty to one related charge on November 24, 2022.
They were both handed a lifetime ban from owning or keeping animals, along with community payback and 12 months of supervision.
Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona McKenzie expressed her disappointment, stating, “I tried on several occasions to work with John and Victoria Symons in relation to their animals.
Initially, some animals were removed, leaving only two dogs and two cats, but both continued to neglect their animals despite advice.
The search of their property uncovered cats hidden in pet carriers and kittens found under dirty laundry.
The smell from the flat was described as 'horrendous' and could be smelt from the communal landing.
Animal welfare officers found the animals in poor health and not receiving necessary veterinary care or proper nutrition, leading to suffering, injury, and disease.
Fiona McKenzie added, “I was extremely disappointed with the owners in this case of neglect as we made every effort to try and help the couple initially.
The continuing neglect and suffering being caused to animals resulted in a case reported to the procurator fiscal.
The Symons could have prevented their animals' suffering by providing adequate nutrition and seeking veterinary treatment for medical issues.
The punishment included a lifetime ban, which Fiona McKenzie considers justified given the animals' plight.
Animal welfare agencies urge the public to report concerns via the confidential helpline at 03000 999 999.
