A MAN who threw his golden retriever against a wall, and onto Ayr’s Main Road, was told his behaviour was ‘appalling’ before he was jailed.

John Poole of Paterson Street, Ayr, appeared, from custody, before Sheriff Carole Cunninghame at Ayr Sheriff Court yesterday (Monday, February 19) for sentencing.

He admitted causing the dog unnecessary suffering and injury when he punched and kicked the pet, called Biscuit, on the head and body.
Poole then threw the animal against a wall and in front of oncoming traffic on Saturday, January 27.

The 42-year-old also behaved in an abusive manner, when he shouted and swore at police and uttered threats of violence towards him.
Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor, Tony Currie, said: “There have been no previous incidents of this kind.

“Mr Poole has explained to me he has had a long standing involvement with animals and he understands he may be disqualified [from looking after them].”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Carole Cunninghame, said: “Mr Poole stand up please. 

“This is appalling behaviour - appalling behaviour and in all the circumstances, having considered everything, the court is of the view that a custodial sentence is appropriate and is merited in this case.

“The court imposes six months in custody and furthermore in respect of charge one the court makes a deprivation order in respect of the animal concerned.

“That formally removes the pet from your care. The court also makes a disqualification order which bans you from owning or keeping animals for a period of four years.

“You are still subject to the court in respect of another matter and that is still under review.

“When you are released you will remain alcohol free, do you understand that?”

Poole has been imprisoned for four months, discounted from six months, due to the timing of his plea. 

He has been placed on a deprivation order which means Biscuit has been removed from his care.

Poole has also been disqualified from owning or keeping animals for four years. 

Biscuit was rehomed and is believed to be settling in well.