Dog fight trainer banned from owning animals for 15 years

A man has been given a 15-year ban on owning animals after training a dog for animal fighting.

Sean Alexander Mullen's Patterdale terrier, called Ronnie, was found with serious facial injuries by the Scottish SPCA.

Mullen, who had 11 previous convictions including one for bludgeoning a fox to death, was given the ban on caring for, and owning, animals and was ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

More stories from Glasgow & West Scotland

The SSPCA's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) carried out a search at Mullen's Paisley home after being tipped off about Ronnie's condition.

They found the dog and two younger male Patterdale terriers, along with animal fighting paraphernalia and training equipment, such as treadmills.

Ronnie was found with severe facial injuries consistent with having been in face-to-face combat with wild animals.

A vet who examined the animals said Ronnie had "repeated facial trauma" that most likely came from animal fighting.

The vet added: "Allowing the dog to sustain these injuries resulted in preventable disease and injury.

"The wounds would have been painful and required veterinary treatment. By not seeking veterinary attention, the dog was left to endure severe unnecessary suffering for weeks, or for however long the injuries had been present."

An SIU inspector said the charity welcomed the sentencing but was disappointed a lifetime ban and a custodial sentence were not imposed.

The unit called on the Scottish government to introduce animal welfare sentencing guidelines, similar to those in England.

Ronnie's new owner described the terrier as being a "bundle of love".

They added: "He is the cutest and loveliest dog. He is so caring and loving. He has brought utter joy to our lives.

"I really can't understand why anyone would do something like this. It brings me to tears to think of the pain and suffering Ronnie has gone through".

Mullen was also sentenced to a restriction of liberty order from 19:00 to 07:00 for six months, reduced from nine months.

Animal cruelty cases carry up to five years' jail

Views sought on animal cruelty punishments