WILFRIED VANGENECHTEN'S HORRIFIC ANIMAL NEGLECT IN HAMILTON LEADS TO FIVE-YEAR BAN

Wilfried Frederik Anna Vangenechten, a breeder and kennel owner based in Hamilton, has been convicted of severe animal neglect that resulted in the tragic death of several dogs. Born in September 1959, Vangenechten resided at Avon Bridge Lodge on Old Avon Road in Ferniegair, Hamilton, with his operations coming under scrutiny after reports of distressed animals being kept at his premises.

In 2019, authorities from the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) responded to a tip-off regarding the conditions at Vangenechten’s kennels. The raid uncovered a disturbing scene: a total of 17 dogs, including breeds such as Cairn terriers, West Highland terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Miniature Schnauzers, and Shih Tzus, were found living in appalling conditions. Many of these animals were underweight, their fur matted and unkempt, with some suffering from skin ailments. The conditions were so dire that four of the dogs were deemed beyond saving and had to be euthanized to end their suffering.

During the investigation, Vangenechten admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the dogs during the months of February and March 2019. It was also revealed that he was operating his breeding and boarding kennel without the necessary licensing, further compounding the severity of his misconduct. The authorities took swift action, seizing the animals and bringing the case before the court.

The court, presided over by a sheriff, sentenced Vangenechten to a disqualification from keeping any animals for a period of five years, which will expire in October 2024. The judge acknowledged that this ruling would effectively shut down his business, but she also allowed him to retain ownership of a single pet dog and a small flock of chickens. The sheriff emphasized that her decision was made after careful consideration of all the evidence and circumstances, stating, “I have no option but to impose a disqualification order for a period of five years.”

She further clarified that during this period, Vangenechten is prohibited from dealing with, working with, or taking possession of any animals other than his permitted pet dog and poultry. The court considered whether additional penalties or measures were appropriate but ultimately decided that the current order was sufficient to address the misconduct. The sheriff acknowledged the impact of the ruling on Vangenechten’s livelihood but stressed the importance of animal welfare and accountability in such cases.