Saving Animals in Scotland
Your Scottish SPCA magazine Spring/Summer 2018
Super Staffies
20 year ban for animal abuse
#SayNoTo PuppyDealers
Your donations are saving lives! 03000 999 999 scottishspca.org
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Boo No k w scottishspca.org/doglover Official Supporter of The Rescue Zone
News 44% increase in animals seized in Scotland
10 In court
20 year ban for animal abuse 12 Feature
Championing improvements in animal welfare
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Your Scottish SPCA Magazine. We keep our costs as low as possible to ensure even more of your kind donations can be used to help defenceless animals in Scotland. This magazine, which keeps you up to date with the fantastic work taking place thanks to your support, costs just 45p to print and post. If you donate £5 a month, that’s less than 1% of your annual donations. If you are a member of the Scottish SPCA, please note that our AGM will take place on Thursday 14 June 2018. The time and venue will be confirmed on our website at a later date. Please visit scottishspca.org/about for updates RECIEVE YOUR MAGAZINE VIA EMAIL INSTEAD Would you like to receive your magazine by email? It’s simple!
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You can have fun, raise funds and help save lives! Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Kingseat Road, Halbeath, Dunfermline KY11 8RY 03000 999 999 | scottishspca.org |info@scottishspca.org Scottish Charity No. SC 006467
Fill out and send us the form supplied with this magazine. Email membership@scottishspca.org
Editor: Michelle Supple Design: Eddie Naper ISSN: 1360-8207
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News. CONTACT US
/scottishspca
Thanks to our supporters we can rescue animals from danger and distress. Your donations save lives and give animals a second chance.
@scottishspca
scottishspca.org
Animal Helpline 03000 999 999
44 percent increase in animals seized in Scotland Last month we reported a 44 percent increase in animals seized in 2017 as a result of cases we submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. Overall, 52 people were banned from owning animals last year - that’s an average of one every week, with many of these animals having suffered in the most appalling conditions. The illegal puppy trade remains one of our major concerns, with almost half of the record 302 animals seized by our inspectors and undercover special investigations unit last year rescued from dealers who treat dogs as nothing more than commodities. Sadly, animal cruelty cases can often take years to be heard in court and is the reason why we had more than 1,000 animals in our care in 2017 with no home to go to because their owners had not yet faced trial. First and foremost it is detrimental to the welfare of the animals being kept indefinitely and is also entirely at our expense. Whilst our dedicated and expert animal rescue and rehoming staff ensure that all the animals we look after receive the love, attention and veterinary treatment they need while they await their forever homes, we would like to see the time it takes for these court cases to be dealt with drastically reduced. In 2017 our frontline staff responded to over 89,500 incidents as a result of calls to our animal helpline. We firmly believe that
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education is the key to preventing cruelty and we are encouraged by the continued success of our Prevention through Education programme for primary schools which reached over 275,000 children last year. The links between animal cruelty and violent crime has been well documented. We aim to help break the cycle by expanding our prevention through education programme to all ages, whilst ensuring that our workshops are continually developed in line with evidence gained from animal welfare education based research.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
News.
Baby bird top tips 1. Monitor from a distance for a short period of time 2. If the bird appears to be abandoned or in distress please contact our animal helpline 3. Any unfeathered birds found on the ground are likely to have fallen, they can be placed back in the nest using gloves #BabyBirds
Record number of birds 2017 was one of our busiest ever years for young birds, with 7,257 coming into our care. Although the majority of birds that came into our care were rescued because they were injured, a minority could have remained where they were. Unfortunately, baby birds are often reported as injured when they are simply trying to learn how to fly. National Wildlife Rescue Centre Manager Colin Seddon explains what to look out for, “It’s understandable for people to be worried when they come across a young bird on the ground that appears clumsy and unable to fly. “However, this is a vital part of the learning to fly process and the parents are very likely to be nearby, watching their young making their first efforts to take to the skies.
“We would ask anyone who has concerns to try to monitor the fledglings from a distance to see if the parents appear. “Any unfeathered birds found on the ground are most likely to have accidentally fallen from their nest and it may be possible to put them back in, ideally wearing gloves. “Under no circumstances should anyone who discovers a nest try to touch or move the fledglings inside. This could cause the parents to abandon them and would also be illegal.” Sometimes it can be difficult to decide if a baby bird is in need of help and we would always urge anyone who is concerned to call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 where our trained staff can offer advice and guidance.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
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News. Did you know we rehomed 5,410 animals in 2017
Super Staffies We have many Staffies looking for homes and we know many people overlook them because they think they may be aggresive. Back in November, to highlight that staffies are actually friendly, affectionate and loyal, we cerlebrated all things Staffie with our annual Staffie Awareness Week. We invited people to go along to one of our nine animal rescue and rehoming centres to meet the friendly and loyal staffies we are caring for. More than 20% of all dogs we rehome were Staffies or Staffie crosses, making them the most popular dog to rehome. Buster, dubbed the happiest dog in Scotland after a rehoming campaign revealed he had to have his tail removed as he kept injuring himself after wagging it too much, helped us kick Staffie week off as he was one of our many lovable Staffies in the Society’s care who’s now found his #StaffieEverAfter. During Staffie Awareness Week we were delighted to welcome members of a local
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canicross group to promote the joys of owning a Staffie. Bob McLeod and Kevin and Jen Broadbent, who represent Scotland in the sport, visited our centre in Edinburgh and put resident Staffie, Tyson, to the test. Gilli McLeod, who’d arranged the visit, said, “It was important to us to help promote the Scottish SPCA and the value of rescue dogs. We’ve taken part in various canisports over the years and seen our own, and other rescue dogs, being highly successful winning numerous gold medals.” Our team at our Aberdeenshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre also hosted their own Staffie party and invited all their past residents and new owners to the centre to celebrate our most popular rehomed dog. Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “It’s clear to see why they are our most popular dog, they’re friendly, loyal and affectionate. Staffies are real people dogs and thrive on human companionship.” If you have rehomed a Staffie from us you can share your story using #StaffieEverAfter on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
News.
Snake reunited after five months We were called out by a concerned member of the public after they discovered a snake slithering about the front seat of the rental van they were driving. Unsurprisingly, the driver pulled over and immediately called our animal helpline. Finding a snake in a van can be a bit disturbing but it’s not uncommon to find snakes in unusual places. Animal Rescue Officer Kyle McWhirr said, “Snakes are notorious escape artists. They’re very clever and can fit through the smallest of gaps so owners have to be careful to ensure their vivariums are secure. “Unfortunately we were unable to locate
Oh deer!
Did you know we rehomed 171 exotic animals in 2017
the snake on site, even with the help of an engineer. The van was then towed to our centre in Drumoak where we tried to lure her out. “This story thankfully has a happy ending. Mushu made an appearance and was reunited with her owner after living in a van for five months!”
to help a deer who was spotted standing next to a tramline in Edinburgh for three hours without moving. Senior Animal Rescue Officer Fiona Thorburn said, “I was very concerned when I arrived as the deer seemed completely unaware of my presence and I thought it was likely she had suffered head trauma. “Edinburgh Trams were great as they allowed us to use an out of service tram which helped me to take her to the nearest wildlife vet to be checked out.
Last year at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre we rescued a record 9,645 wild animals. In September, we received a call
“After being seen by a vet we brought her to our National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross to have a full check-up and thankfully she was only suffering from shock and has now made a full recovery.”
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
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News.
Hedgehog highlights
Did you know we rescued a record 9,645 wild animals in 2017
We had a very busy year in 2017, caring for and rehabilitating over 1,470 hedgehogs and 2018 is set to be just as busy.
Colin continued, “Zepplin had a circumference of 30 inches when he first arrived at our centre back in July.
Among those being rehabilitated at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross is Phelps, the hydrotherapy hedgehog, and Zepplin who arrived in our care after being found inflated like a balloon.
“He had been suffering from balloon syndrome, which causes injured hedgehogs to inflate as air becomes trapped between their organs and skin.
Phelps was found outside during the day in November, and it was discovered he had an injury to his hind legs making them unable to bear weight. The team at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre have been providing Phelps with hydrotherapy to help build up his strength. Centre Manager Colin Seddon said, “Our vet advised physiotherapy and because hedgehogs curl up when they are scared, we decided to place him in a shallow bath of water, closely supervised by Nicola Turnbull, head of our small mammals unit. “We continued his treatment over a seven day period and gradually Phelps regained the use of his hind legs.”
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“When Zepplin was on the mend, we had to put some plastic within his spines to ensure the excess air can escape as the poor guy kept reinflating! “We are hopeful that he will make a full recovery in our care and that we should be able to release him, along with Phelps, when the warmer weather sets in.” Both Zepplin and Phelps were found during the day, hedgehogs are nocturnal and it’s very unusual for them to be out and about in the daytime. If you do see a hedgehog out during the day, please call our animal helpline as they are likely in need of some help.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
News.
Chief executive challenge Our Chief Executive Kirsteen Campbell will experience one of the largest running events in the world while raising funds for the animals in our care. Kirsteen will join thousands of runners for the London Marathon on Sunday 22 April. Kirsteen said, “I can’t tell you what a challenge this will be for me. “I am looking forward to representing the Society in April, hopefully I manage to get round and not let you all down!” If you would like to set yourself a challenge in 2018, you can get involved in a number of different events throughout the year and help raise vital funds so we can continue rescuing, rehabilitating rehoming and releasing animals across Scotland.
Banff budgie adventures In February 2018 we were able to reunite a little budgie, who had lost his way, with his owner after he escaped from a window in Banff, Aberdeenshire. We were alerted to his escape when a member of the public spotted the budgie, named Buddy, whilst walking on the cliffs between Whitehills and Banff. Animal Rescue Officer Christine Forbes said, “The caller was able to catch the friendly budgie very easily as he walked up her arm. She then placed him inside her rucksack, which allowed her to transport him to safety. She gave our animal helpline a call on her way back home and I was able to meet them both at her house. “He received some TLC overnight before his tearful, and extremely relieved, owner called our animal helpline after seeing an online appeal. Buddy is now happily back home where he belongs.”
If an animal is in danger or distress, please call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
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In court. REPORT ANIMAL CRUELTY
Sadly, not everyone in Scotland cares for animals as much as you do. We investigate abuse and neglect and help take those responsibe to court.
Animal Helpline 03000 999 999
Did you know that the current maximum jail sentence for animal cruelty is only 12 months
20 year ban for animal abuse Sadly, our frontline staff encounter cases where animals are deliberately deprived of food, water and veterinary care. Instances such as this are very worrying and it is vital we try and prevent these crimes and ensure the best possible animal welfare standards in Scotland. Andrew Elliott from Grangemouth was sentenced at Falkirk Sheriff Court on 8 June. Elliott pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide his dog, a German shepherd called King, veterinary treatment and adequate nutrition. Commenting on the investigation and court case, Inspector Nicola Liddel said, “This case was particularly distressing. When I first visited the property, King could be seen lying in an emaciated state with thick yellow mucus streaming from his nostrils. His eyes were so sunken back into his head that you could hardly see them and they were surrounded by a thick greenish discharge. His demeanour was so low, it looked like he was waiting to die.
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“He was severely emaciated with all his bones visible throughout his coat and muscle wastage around his skull. His coat was stark and horrendously matted due to filth and faecal matter. “After taking King to the vet it was found that he weighed only 18.6kgs, when a dog of his size should be around 32kgs. “Poor King also had a chronic flea infestation and was struggling to breathe due to the severe discharge blocking his nasal passages. “King should not have been left to suffer as he did and was housed in entirely unsuitable accommodation which smelt strongly of urine and faeces.” Due to the extent of his suffering, sickness and distress, King was unfortunately put to sleep following veterinary advice. Elliot received a 20 year ban from owning or keeping any animal, he also received a 180 hour community payback order.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
In court.
Five year ban for cat neglect Carol Baird and Samuel Allan Hutchison from Banff were sentenced at Banff Sheriff Court on 17 October. Baird and Hutchison pled guilty to failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the cats needs were met, allowing the cat’s fur to become so matted he was unable to move properly, and failing to provide veterinary treatment thereby causing him unnecessary pain and suffering. Baird also received a £1,000 fine and Hutchison a further £200 fine. Commenting on the investigation and court case, Inspector Alison Simpson said, “This was one of the worst cases of cat neglect I’ve dealt with and I’ve worked with the Scottish SPCA for more than 20 years. “Austin, the cat, was so badly matted that the vet needed to sedate him to be able to remove the matted fur. “The extent of the matting caused Austin to be unable to exhibit normal behaviours and inhibited his movement. He was also suffering from dental issues that would have caused him considerable pain. “It took over one and a half hours to remove the matted hair, and Austin’s weight dropped from 2.9kgs to 2.65kgs. It’s believed that matting this severe would have taken at least a year to occur, and could have easily been prevented with regular brushing. “Once his hair was removed it was clear how thin he was, with his spine and bones easily seen and felt. A cat of Austin’s build should have weighed around 4-5kg.
“Due to Austin’s advanced age and extremely ill health, a good quality of life could not have been achieved. Following extensive examination a vet decided that the kindest thing to do was put Austin to sleep and end his on-going suffering. “I’m happy the courts have dealt with this case, however it further highlights our push for tougher and more consistent sentencing. This level of neglect didn’t happen overnight and could have easily been avoided. I hope the pair seriously consider their ability to look after animals once the 5 year ban has passed.” As a reporting agency to the Crown Office we are proud of the accomplishments we have made bringing successful convictions against those who commit animal cruelty. However, whilst we have seen 70 successful cases in 2017, the sentences being handed out are hugely inconsistent.
We would like to see the current maximum jail sentence for animal abusers increased from 12 months to five years. An increase in the number of lifetime bans being given would also be welcomed as we believe owning animals should be a privilege and not a right.
We are sorry if you are distressed by any of the images in this magazine. Unfortunately, many of the animals we care for have been caused a great deal of suffering. We feel it is important to show the reality of cruelty to animals in Scotland and how we are able to help by investigating abuse and neglect.
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Feature.
Championing improvements in animal welfare The Society will always actively champion improvements in animal welfare legislation. We welcomed the ambitions set out in the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government such as the introduction of a modern system of registration, tackling the illegal puppy trade and licencing of animal sanctuaries, which we stand to support. We were also delighted to see our calls for an increase in the maximum penalty for the most serious animal cruelty cases from 12 months imprisonment to five years addressed within the Scottish Government’s ambition to amend the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
animal cruelty and animal welfare crimes and I would encourage inconsistencies found across Scotland for sentencing animal cruelty crime to be addressed.” In March, we were sponsored by Margaret Mitchell, MSP, to host a parliamentary week which afforded us the opportunity to speak one on one with MSPs and their teams about our concerns for the welfare of animals now, and in the future. It is essential that we keep raising awareness of issues that animals are facing right here at home, and globally, to ensure Scotland is recognised as having the highest standards of animal welfare.
We believe that Scotland is a nation of animal lovers, however there are still a minority of people who continue to bring harm and suffering to animals. Whilst we have seen an increase in bans, with 52 people receiving a ban from owning animals in 2017, the sentences handed out are hugely inconsistent. The proposed increase in the maximum jail term for animal cruelty will not only act as a deterrent to potential criminals, but will also provide a greater range of options for the Sheriffs dealing with these cases.
Our impact, with support from our members and partner organisation, cannot be underestimated. Recent campaigning saw the Scottish Government committing to issuing guidance on the use of electric shock collars under section 38 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, and recognising that using these devices as a training method can cause unnecessary suffering.
Speaking in support of increasing the maximum sentencing Emma Harper MSP said, “I support a review of the sentencing for
Find out more about our campaigns on our website: scottishspca.org/ campaigns
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Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
Feature.
“I support a review of the sentencing for animal cruelty and animal welfare crimes and I would encourage inconsistencies found across Scotland for sentencing animal cruelty crime to be addressed.� Emma Harper, MSP
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
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Feature.
“With our partners, we have relentless commitment to disrupting the trade at source. In order to stem the huge demand for puppies we are highlighting this issue and educating the public on the potentially life threatening consequences for dogs and the heartbreaking emotional and financial cost for families.� Kirsteen Campbell, Chief Executive, Scottish SPCA
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Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
Feature.
#SayNoToPuppyDealers know it can be hard to see a pup kept in these conditions and walk away, however purchasing puppies from these environment simply funds the next litter.
Over the past year we have been raising the public profile of the illegal puppy trade and highlighting the devastating effects of this immoral industry with our campaign #SayNoToPuppyDealers. Our special investigations unit operate under the banner of Operation Delphin, a multiagency taskforce, to detect, disrupt and help bring an end to the needless suffering of thousands of puppies and breeding bitches. In addition to our work investigating unscrupulous dealers we have been working closely with partner organisations to tackle this trade head on. In November we held our first K9 conference, bringing together experts from across the UK to create a unified strategy against the horrific multimillion pound trade. At the conference we released research, carried out in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, detailing the effects of intensive breeding on puppies. Findings showed that dogs from puppy farms exhibit significantly higher rates of undesirable behaviours than dogs from other breeding sources, particularly relating to fear, anxiety and aggression. Sadly, the dealers responsible for this trade show no signs of stopping, and the demand for these pups hasn’t declined. We
Kirsteen Campbell, Chief Executive said, “With our partners, we have relentless commitment to disrupting the trade at source. In order to stem the huge demand for puppies we are highlighting this issue and educating the public on the potentially life threatening consequences for dogs and the heart-breaking emotional and financial cost for families. Many people who unknowingly buy from puppy dealers think they are rescuing these animals, and we appreciate that it is very hard to walk away, but this produces demand in the industry and creates a bigger problem.” As part of our fight against the illegal puppy trade we are launching a new website saynotopuppydealers.co.uk to help highlight to the public the brutal reality of puppy farming, how to buy a puppy responsibly, find responsible breeders and report concerns. Help us #SayNoToPuppyDealers and share our campaign on social media. If you have any concerns about a puppy stop, walk away and report them to our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
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Fundraising CONTACT US
/scottishspca
We’d like to say a huge thank you to all the fantastic fundraisers who have been taking part in brilliant challenges to raise vital funds for Scotland’s animals.
@scottishspca
scottishspca.org
Three abseils for animals A brave animal lover from Uddingston has been busy raising vital funds for Scotland’s animals while taking part in a number of abseil challenges. Liz Daisley bravely abseiled from the Titan Crane in August before abseiling 165ft from the iconic Forth Rail Bridge in October, raising more than £530! Having enjoyed abseiling for animals so much Liz has decided to take on the Forth Rail Bridge once again this year. And she’s not stopping there! Liz has also signed up to a zip slide challenge over the river Clyde this summer to raise even more for the animals in our care. We have a huge amount of admiration for anyone who sets themselves a challenge and it’s something to be very proud of.
Did you know it costs £15 million a year to run the Scottish SPCA
By taking part in fundraising events, our supporters are helping us care for even more abused, abandoned and injured animals across Scotland. If you’re up for a challenge, we have a variety of fun and exciting events taking place throughout the year. For more information please visit scottishspca.org/events
Pound for Paws was a great success We asked animal lovers across Scotland to walk, jog, or run a distance of their choice throughout the month of September whilst raising as much as they can and having fun and you didn’t disappoint! Thanks to our dedicated supporters, nearly 400 people signed up and we managed to raise nearly £14,000 for the Society through Pound for Paws. We had support from Team GB athlete Eilidh Doyle who got the event off to a great start as she took to the track. Team GB athlete and animal lover Eilidh Doyle said, “Animals bring so much joy to their owners and they all deserve caring families,
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which is why I decided to help.” This year we’re making Pound for Paws bigger and better, not only can you walk, jog or run you can also pedal for paws in 2018. Sign up at scottishspca.org/paws
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
Fundraising.
Take part, have fun and help save lives Edinburgh Marathon Festival
Saturday 26 - Sunday 27 July
Kilt Walk, Aberdeen
Sunday 3 June
Forth Road Bridge, 5K, South Queensferry
Saturday 9 June
Great Scottish Walk and Run, Edinburgh Dog Jog, Edinburgh and Glasgow
Sunday 1 July Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 July
Kilt Walk, Dundee
Sunday 19 August
Parachute for Paws, St Andrews Airfield Pound for Paws
Saturday 25 August September
Forth Rail Bridge Abseil, South Queensferry Great Tartan Tea Party
Sunday 21 October Friday 30 November
Sign up today and do something incredible for Scotland’s animals! For more information please get in touch Call 03000 999 999 (option 4)
Email fundraising@scottishspca.org
Visit scottishspca.org/events
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Fundraising.
Giving a helping hand Volunteers generously give up their spare time to support us in many ways such as helping at our animal rescue and rehoming centres, organising events and fundraising in their local communities.
Scottish SPCA supporter groups
We have a network of supporter groups across Scotland made up of individuals who come together to raise awareness and fundraise within their local communities. Our groups are always looking for helpers or new members to assist with bucket collections or fundraising events, especially during Scottish Animal Week, 3 – 9 September. Being part of your local supporter group is a great way to help animals, meet new friends and simply have fun.
For more information about joining your local group please contact:
fundraising@scottishspca.org 03000 999 999
Donate 10% to the Scottish SPCA when you book your holiday with Cottages.com We have partnered with Cottages.com who are donating 10% to the Scottish SPCA every time you book with them. Cottages. com have a superb collection of over 18,000 holiday properties perfect for everyone and their dog! We don’t receive government or lottery funding and we rely on partnerships and
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other support like our work with cottages. com to help raise vital funds to help the animals in our care. For more information visit www.chooseacottage.co.uk/ssp when you’re ready to book call their call sales team on 0345 268 9650 to automatically donate 10% to the Scottish SPCA.
Saving Animals in Scotland Spring/Summer 2018
Forever Care Did you know you can have peace of mind that we will look after your pet and find them a loving new home should they outlive you when you sign up to our free Forever Care service.
To receive information about our free Forever Care service or leaving a gift in your Will please contact us.
forever@scottishspca.org 03000 999 999
Simply shop at smile.amazon.co.uk and select Scottish SPCA to help raise vital funds!
AmazonSmile is an online shop with the same fantastic products and prices as Amazon. The difference is that when you shop on AmazonSmile, Amazon will make a donation to the Scottish SPCA.
POUND for PAWS September 2018
Walk, Jog, Run or Pedal every day in September for abused, abandoned and neglected animals in Scotland
Choose your distance and sign up today! fundraising@scottishspca.org 03000 999 999 Scottish Charity No. 006467