Scots couple kept 76 animals in appalling conditions in filthy two-bed flat

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A couple who kept 76 animals in appalling conditions in a two-bed flat have been handed a lifetime ban. Scottish SPCA inspectors found dogs, cats, kittens, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, a parrot and various small birds all living in John and Victoria Symons' property in Aberdeenshire during raids.John, 41, previously pled guilty to numerous charges of causing unnecessary suffering to several of their animals and failing to ensure the welfare of all animals under their care at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

His 36-year-old wife, Victoria, pled guilty to one charge on 24 November 2022.As well as the lifetime ban from owning or keeping animals, the couple were sentenced with community payback order and a 12-month supervision order.During searches of the property, animal welfare officers found cats were found hidden within pet carriers in cupboards and kittens found under dirty laundry.

The animals were found to be living in their own excrement and in poor health.SSPCA staff described the smell coming from the flat as "horrendous" and could be smelled from the communal landing.

Scottish SPCA inspector, Fiona McKenzie, said: “I tried on several occasions to work with John and Victoria Symons in relation to their animals.