In light of the recent Scottish SPCA strategic review, which noted that the average fine for animal abuse is £139 and the average community…

The question of penalties for animal cruelty offences was the subject of a recent petition to the Scottish Parliament. In my response to the Public Petitions Committee I explained that the maximum penalty available is 12 months imprisonment and/or a £20,000 fine. This is in line with the rest of Great Britain, and the Scottish Courts have not yet used the maximum penalties available to them. The Scottish Government therefore believes that the maximum sentences available are currently proportionate. Sentencing decisions in individual cases are however a matter for the Courts, who will consider the relative seriousness of the offence and the full surrounding circumstances when deciding on an appropriate sentence.