A BALLINGRY man has been fined after his dog was found to be in an emaciated condition and apparently starving.

Robert Blackwood, 54, of Martin Crescent, appeared for sentencing at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

He admitted that on or between January 29 and February 8, being the person responsible for Jojo, a black whippet, he caused it unnecessary suffering by not seeking veterinary attention, thus causing an emaciated body condition.

Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said that at 1pm on February 8, a SSPCA officer visited Blackwood’s home, following a call from a member of the public concerned about a dog being neglected.

“The dog was struggling to walk and was thin. The officer was concerned the animal was not being fed properly,” said the depute.

“The dog was scavenging about in the garden looking for scraps of food. The officer was shocked by the dog’s condition.

“There were three other dogs in the house and they were in good condition. The accused’s 19-year-old son said he looked over these dogs and his dad only looked after Jojo.”

Blackwood told the SSPCA worker that he had financial problems and could not afford to take his dog to the vet.

He also claimed he was feeding Jojo two times a day.

The SSPCA took the animal to their kennels and after 12 days Jojo had put on 12kg in weight and “continues to make positive progress”, added the depute.

Defence solicitor Ian Beatson said his client had taken the dog from its previous owner four years ago because it was not being looked after properly.

“It’s not a case that the dog wasn’t being fed but sometimes he would eat his food and sometimes he wouldn’t.

“Mr Blackwood saw it had lost weight and should have done something about it. He says he had good bonding with Jojo.”

Sheriff Alison McKay said: “This is a serious matter.” She fined Blackwood £400.