Puppy left in pain after being hit by car as Aberdeenshire owner fined after Scottish SPCA investigation

An Aberdeenshire man has been fined after he failed to seek veterinary attention for his 18-week-old puppy after he was hit by a car.

In February 2020, the Scottish SPCA carried out an investigation after receiving reports that a German Shepherd crossbreed puppy had been hit by a car.

Inspectors visited the home of Luke Kildare of The Hythe in Macduff where the puppy, named Fatty, was found lying on a sofa in the living room and was “very subdued and quiet”.

His right foreleg was extremely swollen from the elbow to toes and it was more than twice the size of the left foreleg.

Scottish SPCA inspector Fiona McKenzie said: “Fatty was obviously injured and suffering immense pain.

“There was fresh blood on the injured leg, his toenails were broken and pads on the foot were scratched.

“These injuries are consistent with being hit by a car which Kildare confirmed had occurred earlier that evening.”

Kildare had “disregard to Fatty’s injuries”, she said, and he “inconsiderately went to touch the affected leg and the puppy screamed in pain”.

Fatty had been injured and in pain for at least two hours without veterinary treatment.

The animal charity inspector added: “Kildare was reluctant to take his puppy for veterinary treatment or accept assistance from the Scottish SPCA to arrange this so Fatty was removed from the property to seek first aid treatment.

“The vet confirmed that Fatty’s right foreleg had been fractured as a result of being hit by the car.

“Fatty should have been seen by a vet immediately after the incident. Kildare’s failure to seek veterinary treatment for Fatty undoubtedly caused this young puppy immense suffering.”

Kildare pled guilty at Banff Sheriff Court on June 14 and received a £750 fine.

Due to Kildare being incarcerated, the Sheriff determined that he was unable to pay this amount and he was sentenced to a period of 28 days.

Inspector McKenzie said: “Although we’re glad that Kildare has received a fine we would have liked him to receive a ban on keeping animals due to the disregard he showed for Fatty’s wellbeing in this case.

“We hope he seriously reconsiders his ability to care for any animal in future.”

“Fatty had to endure a horrendous start to his life but has since been rehomed by the Scottish SPCA where he is now in a loving home.

“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”