Dog left to suffer serious skin disease and cancerous lumps as Edinburgh owner failed to seek vet treatment for 5 years

A dog was left to suffer from severe skin disease and cancerous lumps as its owner failed to seek vet treatment for five years.

Max was left to suffer. Pic: SSPCA

Gwendoline Richardson was found guilty of animal cruelty for causing her dog unnecessary suffering following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

The 59-year-old, of Hay Drive in Niddrie, had allowed Max, a 14-year-old black and tan male Doberman cross, to develop a serious skin condition and growths over the course of five years without seeking veterinary treatment.

Richardson admitted the offence at under Section 19 (2) (a) and (b) of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 but was admonished.

The dog's owner failed to seek vet treatment for five years. Pic: SSPCA

Extensive hair loss and lumps

Scottish SPCA chief inspector Paul Anderson said: “A member of the public contacted our animal helpline after becoming concerned about Max’s condition.

“We attended Richardson’s address and examined Max. He had extensive hair loss from ribs to tail plus several lumps on his body, the most prominent being a tumour on his spine.

“While we were there, Richardson told us she hadn’t taken Max to the vet for around five years.

“It was clear that Max’s chronic skin condition and growths needed urgent veterinary attention.

“We removed the dog from the premises and immediately took him to a vet.

“The examination revealed he had severe skin disease with associated hair loss and thickening of the skin.

“The lumps did not cause Max any discomfort when manipulated. He also had an infection in both ears which was most likely a flea infection with secondary yeast infection.

“Max was taken to one of our animal rescue and rehoming centres to receive the care and medication he needed.

“Sadly, on veterinary advice, Max had to be put to sleep due to a cancerous lump in his jaw.

“We’re disappointed Richardson did not receive a sentence in this case but we are pleased she was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to Max.

“We hope this makes her think about her ability to care for animals in the future.”