Three dogs found living among 'some of the worst conditions ever seen' in Livingston home as owner hit with ban
Connor Stewart admitted to breaching animal welfare legislation during a hearing at Livingston Sheriff Court
A man has been hit with a ban on owning or caring for animals for five years after three dogs were found living in “squalid” conditions at his home in Livingston.
Connor Stewart admitted to keeping two Dobermans and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier in his faeces and urine-soaked flat without access to food or water.
Scottish SPCA inspectors first attended the property in December 2023 after concerns were raised about the welfare of the dogs with the SSPCA’s Animal Helpline.
After arriving at the property, inspectors noted that the poor condition of Stewart’s flat could be seen through the letterbox.
Stewart was notified to return to the property and allow access. After he arrived, he brought the Doberman dogs, named Ammo and Karma, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, named Kya, out onto the landing.
Inspectors noted that Ammo in particular was underweight, with ribs and hips poking out and his nails were overgrown.
After inspectors gained entry to Stewart’s flat, they found what has been described as “some of the worst” conditions one inspector had ever seen animals living in.
They said: “The flat was completely squalid. The floors were soaked in urine and covered in thick layers of faeces throughout the property, some of which was beginning to turn mouldy.
“There was broken furniture throughout, smashed glass on the floors and electric shock collars charging in the kitchen area of the flat. All the food and water bowls were empty and bone dry.”
SSPCA inspectors took the decision to remove the dogs immediate and take them into their care.
However, after Police Scotland were called to assist with the removal, Stewart fled the scene with Ammo and Karma. A deprivation order has since been issued at Livingston Sheriff Court for the two animals.
Kya was taken from the scene to a local veterinary practice for immediate care. It was noted that she smelled strongly of urine, faeces, and drank water enthusiastically.
Stewart was sentenced on Wednesday, July 15 at Livingston Sheriff Court after he pleaded guilty to breaching animal welfare legislation.
He was handed a five-year ban on owning, keeping or caring for animals and was also fined £200.
Following the sentencing, the Scottish SPCA Inspector said: “We are pleased with the Sheriff’s decision.
“Stewart’s behaviour was unacceptable, and he showed complete disregard for his dogs’ wellbeing.
“No animal should be kept in such conditions, and we hope this sentencing sends a clear message that animal neglect will not be tolerated in Scotland.”