THE man who left a puppy to die in Alloa has been overwhelmed by the "negative outcry" he has received from the public, a court has heard.

Michael Murray, 26, admitted a charge of failing to afford medical treatment to a Staffie in his care.

The dog, aged between six and 10 weeks, was found with broken legs and a broken back behind a takeaway in Maple Court. Vets found the injuries were so severe, the pup had to be put to sleep.

Murray was told to carry out 180 hours of unpaid but told Alloa Sheriff Court last month he was unfit to do so.

He returned to the dock on Thursday, October 16, and claimed to be willing to carry out unpaid work, but that it was having an effect on his family life.

His lawyer Kelly Howe said: "He has been overwhelmed by the impact the offence has had on himself and his family."

She added that Murray was forced to "distance himself from his children" for their safety due to behaviour of some members of the public.

The court was then asked to replace the remaining 137 hours with a curfew and electronic tag.

Sheriff David Mackie obliged and added: "This is a significant matter and not one that can just be put to one side. But unpaid work is not working; it's unproductive."

He ordered Murray, of Maple Court, to remain indoors between 8pm and 5am every evening for the next three months.