CONVICTED (2020) | Lawrence (Larry) Hughes, born c. 1956, of Eliburn South, Livingston EH54 – failed to treat his pet dog’s painful skin condition Cruel Lawrence Hughes failed to treat his dog’s painful skin condition Crossbreed Tara was found to have gnawed at her paws and legs and developed severe hair loss after her skin condition was left untreated for weeks Tara’s owner, Lawrence Hughes, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the dog. Following a tip-off from a concerned neighbour, the SSPCA visited Hughes’ home where they found Tara in a great deal of discomfort and distress. Crossbred Tara recovered in the Scottish SPCA’s care and made available for rehoming Scottish SPCA inspector Jennifer Surgeon said, “As soon as we saw Tara it was clearly evident that she had a severe problem with her skin. “She was constantly scratching at herself and gnawing at her paws and legs. She had severe hair loss from her rib cage down to her tail, affecting her under carriage and all four legs. Her skin was hot and clammy to touch, felt thickened and was covered in scabs. What hair there was on her body was very thin and the skin in these areas was also in poor condition. “There was a strong, pungent smell within the property which was coming from Tara as her skin was so bad. “Given the extent of the skin disease these dermatological changes were likely to have developed over a period of no less than 14 days although in reality it’s likely to have been much longer. “We’re glad that Hughes has been given this ban and hope he seriously reconsiders his ability to care for any animal in future. “Tara is now being looked after at one of our rescue and rehoming centres and we’re confident that we’ll be able to find her the loving home she deserves”. Sentencing: six month community payback order. Banned from owning any pets for just one year (expired October 2021). EdinburghLive Scottish SPCA