A MAN upset when his neighbours shopped him over concerns for his beloved pet dog has pleaded guilty to threatening them with violence.

Thomas Beirne, of Freelands Court, Old Kilpatrick, flew into a rage against the two neighbours after the Scottish SPCA was called about his dog.

The animal welfare charity ultimately investigated and found nothing wrong with the 52-year-old man's pet.

Depute fiscal Scott Simpson told Dumbarton Sheriff Court: "The two complainers appear to have had concerns about the dog. These were investigated and found to not be of concern.

"I think he took exception of their expressions of concern and he shounted at the two complainers."

Police were outside at the time to attempt to calm the situation as Beirne shouted, including "grassy wee b******* - you're dead".

Defence solicitor Gail Campbell said Beirne spent a night in custody and there had been difficulties with the neighbours leading up to this point.

She said: "It was said in the head of the moment in anger and what had been a simmering neighbour dispute. Matters seem to have calmed down."

Sheriff Simon Pender finded Beirne £180.