Two men have been sentenced after they were caught running a horror, unlicensed dog fertility clinic from a shed.
Alexander Myers carried out procedures such as artificial insemination, blood tests to monitor ovulation, and microchipping – despite not being a registered vet.
The operation took place at Paul Robertson’s home.
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Police Scotland raised concerns about the welfare of the dogs while attending the property in Gorebridge, near Edinburgh, on an unrelated matter, alerting the Scottish SPCA.
A Scottish SPCA inspector said: “There was an overwhelming stench of faeces and urine coming from the kennels and shed areas.
“The sheds were dark, poorly ventilated and coated in faeces.
“In total, 32 dogs were found at the residence.
“Three were living in the house as pets, while the remainder were kept in unsanitary kennels.”
Examinations revealed ocular, skin, musculoskeletal and respiratory problems in multiple animals.
One female French Bulldog named Miss Piggy was found collapsed, shivering and with fresh wounds to her ears and face.
She also had an untreated ingrown toenail, as reported by Need To Know.
Tragically, her condition was too severe and she was euthanised.
A further five dogs had to be put down due to poor health.
The pair appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday (16 Sep).
The men admitted failing to get urgent attention for Miss Piggy, which caused her suffering for at least four weeks before her death.
Both parties pleaded not guilty to charges relating to the other dogs, and no convictions were made in respect to them.
Robertson was fined £270.
Myers received 180 hours of community payback, a £90 fine, and a three-year ban on owning dogs.
The SSPCA said: “We respect the court’s decision but are disappointed the sentencing was not stronger.
“Even so, this case is a step in the right direction in highlighting the risks of unregulated fertility clinics and the neglect of animal welfare that so often accompanies them.
“Robertson and Myers have failed to ensure the welfare of the many dogs in their care.
“We are increasingly seeing people operating fertility clinics from their homes.
“These clinics are completely unregulated and pose serious risks to animal welfare.
“In some cases, animals are seriously injured after having blood drawn by unqualified individuals.”
The charity is calling for fertility clinics to be formally regulated, with inspections carried out only by registered veterinary surgeons.
A spokesperson added: “We continue to advocate for a complete overhaul of the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, which no longer provides adequate safeguards for animal welfare.
“We also urge anyone considering breeding their pets to consult their vet first, and to report any concerns about fertility clinics directly to our helpline.”
