AN ANIMAL welfare charity has asked vets in the Wee County to help them ensure people who harm animals are brought to justice.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) needs practicing vets to assist them in enforcing the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

This could be done in a number of ways, such as by providing statements in court and assisting with animal cruelty investigations.

Ian Futter, the Scottish SPCA’s chief veterinary officer, said: “We are in need of skilled vets who can help us with our important work.

“The Scottish SPCA relies on the veterinary profession to support animal cruelty investigations, provide expert witness statements and give evidence in court.

“We are looking for professionals throughout Scotland who would be willing to support our animal cruelty cases outwith their normal practice.

“It will involve working closely with our frontline and Special Investigations Unit to bring those guilty of crimes against animals to justice.

“Cases can be anything from animal neglect to identification of dog breeds.

“We do extensive work into illegal puppy farming and cases linked to serious and organised crime such as badger baiting and dog fighting.

“An example of what may be required could be examining an animal involved in an investigation and preparing court reports on the body condition.

“Full training will be provided.”

The charity will hold a free information event for any vets interested in signing up, on September 18 at their headquarters in Dunfermline between 1pm and 3pm.

To find out more information meantime, visit tinyurl.com/y52f39my.