'Their spine and ribs were clearly visible’: Couple who neglected three dogs handed bans
Last updated 14th Jan 2026
An inspector from a leading animal welfare charity says the condition of three dogs in the Scottish Borders is "one of the worst cases of neglect" they have ever seen.
And, they add, it's further evidence of why a National Animal Offenders register is urgently needed.
The spine, ribs and hips were all clearly visible in the animals seized from Samara Morecroft and Ryan Hogg, while one of them was diagnosed with a painful eye condition which resulted in them having to get one removed.
The Scottish SPCA attended the couple’s former home in Lilliesleaf in December 2023 after a report of concern for the welfare of the dogs was made to the society’s helpline.
Morecroft, aged 40, pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a one-year-old Cane Corso, named Bronson, by failing to adequately feed them or seek veterinary care when their condition deteriorated.
Co-accused Ryan Hogg, aged 27, was found guilty of the same charge involving eight-year-old German Shepherd, Saphire, and one-and-a-half-year old brindle lurcher, Glen.
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The inspector - who is not named - said: "Bronson, Saphire and Glen’s spine, ribs and hips were clearly visible. Glen also had a matted coat.
“It was one of the worst cases of neglect I have seen in years.”
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The vet found Bronson and Saphire were both emaciated, while Glen was severely underweight caused, according to the SSPCA, by an inadequate provision of food over a period of several weeks or possibly longer.
At Selkirk Sheriff Court, Morecroft was banned from owning dogs for five years and ordered to carry out 65 hours of unpaid work, while Hogg was banned from keeping dogs for two years and fined a total of £740.
The Scottish SPCA Inspector said: “We welcome the court’s decision and hope it sends a strong message that animal neglect will not be tolerated in Scotland. No animal should be inflicted by such pain.”
All dogs are now said to be in good health following rehabilitation with the Scottish SPCA, and have been rehomed.
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