Banff woman who starved ex-partner's dog for months after break-up sentenced

An Aberdeenshire woman who left her ex-partner’s dog to starve for months after breaking up has been sentenced.

Katie Margaret Lynch of Bogroy Crescent, Banff, has been handed 90 hours of unpaid work and a six-month supervision order following an investigation.

On May 2, the 32-year-old pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the dog by failing to provide a suitable diet.

Dexter, two, was rescued by the Scottish SPCA on March 6 last year, after a member of the public found him straying between Buckie and Keith.

Upon examination, vets found that the lurcher was extremely malnourished and emaciated; his bones were visible and he had lost an extreme amount of muscle mass.

They were unable to find any physical reason as to why Dexter had not been eating or putting on weight, and he weighed in at just 15.6kg.

SSPCA senior inspector Lesley Crockett said that, by the time he was rehomed just two months later, he had gained ten kilograms and weighed in at 26.6kg.

“The vet estimated his condition would have been the result of at least a couple of months of inadequate nutrition,” she added.

Following several press and social media appeals by the charity, Lynch was identified as the owner.

A relative of hers confirmed that Dexter had been kept at her home, and there was a large kennel and dog run in the garden.

Lynch claimed the dog belonged to her ex-partner, who she had last seen two or three months before, and that she did not know Dexter had been left behind.

She also alleged that she had never heard him barking, and thought her ex-partner had taken him away or sold him.

Lynch pled guilty to neglecting him at Banff Sheriff Court on May 2, and was sentenced on June 28.

Inspector Crockett said: “We’re pleased that Lynch has received a sentence for the suffering she caused to Dexter.

“We hope she will seriously consider her ability to care for any animal in future.

“If anyone is concerned about the welfare of an animal they can call our confidential helpline on 03000 999 999.”