A MAN has been banned from keeping animals for failing to seek medical help for a dog suffering from swellings in its ears.

Connor Taylor eventually sought veterinary attention for the Staffordshire bull terrier pup called Diesel when the haematomas affecting both of its ears burst.

The 23-year-old’s dog had to be put down as a result of the swellings.

Taylor, of Ridley Street, Stanley, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal when in Newton Aycliffe on Wednesday (March 29).

Bill Davison, mitigating, said there was no pre-meditation or wickedness involved in the matter. He added the defendant did not intend to keep or own more animals.

Taylor was given a five-year animal banning order and was ordered to pay £100 prosecution costs.