A BORDERS man who allowed a horse under his care to suffer with a maggot infested leg wound has been convicted following a Scottish SPCA investigation.

Ricky Martin, known as Gary Martin, 31, of Houndslow, Gordon, appeared for sentencing at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Monday (8 February) and was ordered to pay £1,200 in compensation to the Scottish SPCA.

At a previous appearance, Martin pled guilty to failing to provide veterinary treatment for his 19 year old stallion named Silver, contrary to the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Commenting on the investigation and court case, Inspector Tracy McNaughton said, "Silver had a bandage on his left hind leg which looked like it had been on for some considerable time. There was flesh growing over the top of the wound and it was covered in dirty puss.

"Following an independent veterinary examination, it was concluded that Silver had a horrific leg wound which he had not received any veterinary attention for.

"There was a large number of maggots in and around the wound and the vet confirmed Silver had suffered as a result.

"Silver required specialist veterinary treatment including several leg casts and a skin graft. Thankfully he has since made a fully recovery and has since found a loving new home."