Hi All

As promised here is an update after Finlay’s most recent visit from the vet. The vet is delighted with the progress that Finlay continues to make. He is getting stronger and gaining bulk and body mass and he is almost back to the body condition he had before he was seized. We all agree he is about 90% recovered. In the most recent vet report the following comment is made: ‘He gained mass mainly above spinal processes and rib cage, as well as on fore and back limbs’.

As you can see from the picture he has certainly bulked up, look at the muscle definition on his shoulders and how thick his neck is. His body Is no longer ‘hollow’ and his fur has significantly improved. The report states: ‘The quality of the fur has significantly improved in colour, strength and waterproof coverage. Finlay is not overgrooming anymore’.

Basically we are all absolutely delighted with how well he has recovered and he has been thoroughly enjoying the autumnal sunshine. We got this picture as he was striding around his expansive and naturalistic enclosure. He is enjoying life and he is full of energy and vigour. The swagger and confidence that he had lost due to his treatment in police custody, has returned. He is alert to everything and his eyes are bright. We have shed many tears along the way and there were times when we feared he wouldn’t make it, but as always, Finlay never gives up and he has fought to recover.

When we think back to the appalling state he was handed back to us in, it fills us with determination to hold to account everyone who has had a hand in his suffering. As we collate evidence and prepare statements, we are going through and cross referencing the documents obtained from the Police by our legal team. We are piecing together what happened to him. The Police told us that Finlay was kept in a naturalistic enclosure at a specialist animal centre. Indeed, the Crime Commissioner has written to many of you regarding this. However, it transpires that Finlay was actually kept in a quarantine enclosure. A report produced by the police refers to this. The report was from 6 weeks into Finlay’s 4.5 month ordeal. From the vet notes we have obtained from the police, there is no mention of a move or any vet visits to check on him in new surroundings. It therefore seems highly likely that Finlay was held in a quarantine facility for the whole time. Quarantine enclosures are typically small, sterile and intended for short term use. They certainly aren’t appropriate to keep an animal in for 4.5 months. This explains the stereotypical behaviour Finlay developed whilst in the captivity. The overgrooming was a response to stress and boredom. He was clearly suffering both mentally and physically.

Finlay cannot speak, so we will speak for him and if you want to help us get Finlay the justice he deserves then please support our campaign at this link:

https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/justice-for-finlay-1/

We will of course keep you updated on Finlay’s progress but we can all be happy that he is once again full of life and thriving.

Many thanks as always

Emily (Director) and Finlay.