A North East man has been banned from keeping animals for seven years after failing to seek help for his emaciated dog with extensive skin problems.
Michael Lewis, of Victoria Road East in Hebburn, South Tyneside, pleaded guilty to an Animal Welfare Act offence for failing to meet the needs of his American bulldog, Monty.
On July 22, Lewis, 41, received a 12-month community order with 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.
He was disqualified from keeping all animals for seven years and ordered to pay £400 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge.
The RSPCA brought the prosecution after discovering Monty's condition.
South Tyneside Magistrates' Court heard that RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Heather Wade visited Lewis' home on February 18 after concerns were raised about Monty.
However, Monty's condition had worsened when RSPCA Inspector Helen Bestwick visited again on March 6.
Monty's skin was inflamed and scabby, his ears were infected, and he appeared underweight.
He was taken for immediate veterinary attention and later taken into possession at Bedlington police station, Northumberland, under section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act.
A vet confirmed that Monty had a painful skin disease that had not been properly treated.
His ears were infected, his skin was greasy and flaky, he had open sores, and he was very underweight, with a body condition score of three out of nine.
The vet said: "He [Monty] looked quite sorry for himself and sad... and became distressed when trying to examine his ears."
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The court heard that Lewis had tried to treat Monty using over-the-counter products and home remedies and had not made any appointments for Monty despite being registered with a veterinary practice.
Monty has been in the care of the RSPCA since March and has responded well to treatment, gaining weight and having his skin condition properly managed.
The RSPCA urges anyone struggling to care for their pets to seek advice early.
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