A MAN and woman have been given suspended prison sentences and banned from keeping animals for ten years after two dogs in their care were left to suffer.

Ronald Andrews, 38, and Lyndsay Rich, 39, both of Poplar Estate, Highbridge, were disqualified from keeping animals after each admitting three charges of animal cruelty following a prosecution by the RSPCA.

They both appeared before North Somerset Magistrates’ Court on August 17.

RSPCA Inspector Jo Daniels visited the couple’s home after concerns were raised by members of the public.

During her visit she was shown a white and brindle Staffordshire bull terrier named Oscar who had extensive hair loss and obvious sores.

Oscar had areas of wet affected skin and scabs and the skin was reddened. There was a foul smell coming from his mouth.

A second dog, a Jack Russell terrier bitch called Kimmy, was also found to have extensive hair loss and an extremely heavy flea infestation. Her bad breath indicated dental issue.

The nails on her feet were also overgrown and some were ingrowing into her pads.

Mr Andrews agreed that both dogs could be removed for veterinary examination where the vet found them to be suffering and they were seized by the police.

Inspector Daniels said: “The dogs were in a horrendous condition that could have been treated simply and easily with the right care and attention. It’s shocking that anyone could ignore animals when they are in pain and distress.”

Both Andrews and Rich were given 12 weeks custody, suspended 12 months, for each charge to run concurrent to each other.

The court also imposed a ten year disqualification for owning animals, that neither can appeal for eight years, and a curfew which means they must remain in their home between 7pm and 5am for the next 12 weeks.

Each must also pay £435 in court costs.