Ban for woman who starved pet dog

Hobo was rescued from his owner by RSPCA officers

A woman has been banned from keeping animals for 25 years after starving her Alsatian - which was said to have been in an unbelievable condition.

Eleven-year-old Hobo was rescued by the RSPCA from his owner, Jay Battison, 59, of Orchard Hill, Little Billing, Northamptonshire, last July.

Northampton magistrates also gave Battison a 12-month supervision order and ordered her to pay £250 in costs.

Hobo is now recovering and has been found a new home.

The RSPCA said the dog only received treatment after Battison told her son's girlfriend to take the animal to a vet claiming he was a stray.

Hobo suffered terribly and was in an unbelievable condition RSPCA inspector Claire Ryder

At the time Hobo weighed just over 2st 8lb (18kg), had lost most of his fur and was suffering from malnutrition, as well as a painful skin condition.

The RSPCA said he suffered for several months but is now making a good recovery after being re-homed.

Battison earlier admitted causing unnecessary suffering to an animal in June and July last year.

RSPCA inspector Claire Ryder said: "I am very pleased with the disqualification as it is always so important to us that the welfare of future animals is protected.

"Hobo suffered terribly and was in an unbelievable condition.

"I just hope that pet owners will learn from this that they must seek veterinary advice for their animals - it does not help them or their pets to leave them until they suffer."