Aberdeen man jailed after bulldog suffers ear infection without treatment
Last updated 1st Jun 2026
A man from Aberdeen has been jailed for four months and banned from owning dogs for five years after causing his American Bulldog unnecessary suffering by not treating a severe ear infection.
Philip Reid pleaded guilty to charges under animal welfare legislation at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
Concerns were first raised in March 2025 when a call to the Scottish SPCA Helpline reported a stray dog with infected ears.
Despite discovering the dog's owner, worries persisted over potential neglect.
Scottish SPCA Inspectors visited Reid's property multiple times from 10th to 13th March but received no response, until 14th March when Reid was seen leaving the property.
Investigation Reveals Severe Neglect
When Inspectors could finally examine the dog, called Reah, it was evident she was in significant pain due to large open wounds on her ears and severely swollen skin.
Reid initially claimed she was under treatment but later admitted he bought steroids from a friend without a prescription.
Attempts to verify veterinary care were foiled when they discovered no vet appointments had been made for Reah since 2023.
Seizure and Veterinary Examination
On 19th March, a warrant was executed and Reah was removed with the help of Police Scotland due to Reid’s failure to cooperate.
Reah's medical examination revealed she had a fractured tooth and an ear canal closed by inflammation, indicating a prolonged period of suffering.
Her coat and paws were also affected, further underscoring the neglect she faced.
A Scottish SPCA Inspector expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating, “We are pleased with the outcome and the court’s decision to impose a ban on Reid. Reah was in a large amount of pain and distress for a long period of time.”