A 42-YEAR-OLD man who admitted causing a dog unnecessary suffering by failing to get it veterinary treatment has been banned from keeping animals for five years. 

Kevin Mulvey pleaded guilty to the offence which happened at his parents’ home in The Mount, Duns, between January and July 2023. 

Prosecutor Drew Long told Jedburgh Sheriff Court how the Scottish SPCA responded to a complaint about a neglected dog on their telephone helpline. 

The inspector who attended found a Staffordshire bull terrier cross in poor condition suffering from hair loss and flaky skin. 

It was calculated that the dog, named Otto, now deceased, had been suffering from neglect for about six months and would have been in a lot of pain. 

Defence lawyer Ed Hulme said: “He was aware of the gradual deterioration of the dog, Otto, but did not have the funds to deal with the matter and take the dog to the vet. 

“After speaking to him he realises now he should have taken the dog to the Scottish SPCA himself.”

Sheriff Peter Paterson said the lengthy period of neglect meant a disqualification of keeping pets had to be imposed and barred Mulvey for five years. 

A fine of £300 was imposed with a £20 victim surcharge.