A DOG OWNER who failed to look after his pet properly has been fined.

Michael Stobbs, now living in Dunfermline, committed the offence in Lumphinnans when he left the dog alone in the house.

Stobbs then became stranded away from home because of bad weather, Dunfermline Sheriff Court was told.

Stobbs, 35, of Segal House, Segal Place, admitted that between January 10 and February 10, 2021, at his then home in Hilton View, Lumphinnans, he caused his dog unnecessary suffering by failing to provide it with food and water.

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He also failed to seek appropriate veterinary attention for the dog’s ear, eye and skin infections.

Defence solicitor Alexander Flett said his client had planned to go away for just one night but could not get back home because of bad weather.

A neighbour had heard the distressed dog and the SSPCA became involved.

Stobbs was told the dog was underweight, deserved better treatment and he agreed to it being re-homed.

“It was not intentional maltreatment,” the solicitor added.

Sheriff Craig McSherry fined Stobbs £420.