RYAN WALLACE NEILSTON DOG ABUSE HORROR: NEARLY EMACIATED PET SUFFERS FOR MONTHS IN SCOTLAND

Ryan Wallace, born on September 24, 1983, and previously residing on Stewart Street in Barrhead before moving to Hillside Road in Neilston, G78 3ER, has been convicted of severe animal neglect that spanned over a six-month period. The case drew significant attention after Scottish SPCA inspectors discovered Diesel, a dog under Wallace’s care, in a critically malnourished state, prompting a detailed investigation into the extent of the suffering inflicted upon the animal.

Wallace, described as a lifelong loser who relies on benefits and lives with his partner Claire Weir along with their four children, was found to have caused unnecessary pain and suffering to Diesel. The inspectors’ findings revealed that the dog had been subjected to prolonged neglect, resulting in a condition so dire that it was almost unrecognizable as a healthy animal. When examined by veterinary professionals, Diesel was found to have lost approximately a quarter of his body weight, a clear indicator of severe malnutrition.

The veterinarian’s report detailed that Diesel’s bones were protruding from his paws, and his body was riddled with sores, particularly on his tail and hind legs. The dog’s lack of muscle mass and body fat was evident, and he was so desperately hungry that he had resorted to eating his own feces. These distressing details underscored the extent of Wallace’s neglect during the period from June to December 2013, when these offenses took place.

During court proceedings, fiscal depute Franke Clarke explained that Wallace had initially contacted the Scottish SPCA about an unwanted dog, seemingly indicating a desire to rehome Diesel. However, subsequent visits by inspectors to Wallace’s residence revealed a disturbing reality. Wallace admitted that he could no longer care for the dog, citing that Diesel was dirtying the house and eating his own feces. When inspectors requested to see Diesel, they found the dog in a deplorable state, with bones visibly sticking out and sores on his tail and legs. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the inspectors had Wallace sign documents relinquishing ownership of Diesel, who was then taken to a local veterinary clinic for urgent care.

Veterinary assessments confirmed that Diesel had not received proper nourishment for several months. After just six days of treatment, the dog gained 1.7 kilograms, roughly four pounds, indicating a significant improvement in his condition. It was also revealed that Wallace had previously contacted the PDSA, a veterinary charity, expressing concerns about Diesel’s welfare. Despite being advised to bring the dog in for assessment, Wallace failed to follow through.

Judge Simon Fraser addressed the court, describing Diesel’s condition as “terrible” and noting that photographs of the dog’s suffering were “horrendous viewing.” The judge informed Wallace that the maximum penalty for such neglect was a year in jail and/or a £20,000 fine. However, he clarified that Wallace would not face custody but had indeed neglected Diesel for a prolonged period.

Following his recovery, Diesel was successfully rehomed to a caring family. Wallace was sentenced to pay a fine of £475, which is to be paid at a rate of £10 per week. Additionally, he was banned from keeping any animals for five years, a ban that expired in June 2021. The case highlights the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect, serving as a stark reminder of the cruelty some animals endure at the hands of their owners.