Man banned after throwing puppy down stairs

A HEARTLESS pet owner, who threw a puppy down some stairs, has been banned from owning animals for six years.

The SSPCA welcomed the ban. Picture: Bill Henry/TSPL

Robert Thompson admitted breaking his Staffordshire bull terrier puppy’s leg by tossing it down stairs in his home.

The 22-year-old from Larkhall, Lanarkshire, was sentenced at Hamilton Sheriff Court today following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

Thompson had hurled the female dog after he found she had gone to the toilet inside her cage.

During an earlier court appearance, Thompson pled guilty to causing his 18-week-old puppy, named Cheeka, unnecessary suffering which is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Thompson, of Craigbank Street, was also given a deprivation order, meaning Cheeka will not be returned to his care, and 150 hours community service.

Commenting on the investigation and court case, SSPCA Inspector Sam McDonald said: “When questioned, Thompson said he lost his temper because he woke to find Cheeka had toileted inside her cage in the house.

“He told her to do the toilet outside and threw her towards the door, at which point she hit on the door frame and fell down the stairs, breaking one of her front legs.

“This was a shameful act of violence against a defenceless puppy.

“While we welcome the six year ban given to Thompson, in our opinion a life ban on keeping animals would have been an appropriate punishment as we believe he is completely unfit to provide animals with the care they deserve.

“We are pleased that as a result of our investigation Cheeka will not be returned to Thompson and we can now find her a loving new home where she can live happily for the rest of her life.”