Appeal after man tries to drown ferrets
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after a man was seen trying to throw two ferrets into the River Dee in Castle Douglas.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted when a member of the public witnessed the horrifying incident behind Greenhall Road in the Bridge of Dee area on Saturday (11 April).
Thankfully, the ferrets landed on the river bank and are now in the care of the charity’s animal rescue and rehoming centre in Ayr.
Inspector Laurie said, “The suspect is described as male, between 18-20 years old and approximately 5″11 in height. He was wearing a white t-shirt, jeans and a black rucksack.
“When the witness confronted him, he drove away on a scooter and had a blue and white helmet.
“Had the ferrets landed in the river they would have drowned and we are keen to trace the person responsible for this callous behaviour.
“We are asking anyone who recognises the man’s description to contact us as soon as possible.
“The ferrets are both male with brown and polecat colourings.
“One is quite underweight and the other is slightly overweight. He had been picking on the smaller ferret and likely eating all the food.
“We will care for both of these boys until we can find them loving new homes.”
Causing an animal unnecessary suffering is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.
Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
