A Lewisham woman has been banned from keeping animals for five years after her dog died in her care.
The woman, who has not been named, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to the animal by failing to provide it with a suitable environment and veterinary care.
The dog, a female Staffordshire Bull Terrier, was found dead in the woman’s home in February 2020. A post-mortem examination revealed the animal had died from a combination of malnutrition and dehydration.
The woman was also found guilty of failing to provide the dog with a suitable environment, as the animal was kept in a small, unventilated room with no access to water or food.
The woman was sentenced to a five-year ban on keeping animals, as well as a 12-month community order and a £200 fine.
The case was brought by the RSPCA, who said the woman had failed to meet the animal’s basic needs.
RSPCA Inspector Sarah Gardner said: “This poor dog was kept in a small, unventilated room with no access to food or water. This is completely unacceptable and it is no wonder the dog died in such a state.
“We are pleased that the court has taken this case seriously and imposed a ban on the woman keeping animals for five years. We hope this sends a clear message that animal welfare must be taken seriously.”
The RSPCA is urging anyone with concerns about the welfare of an animal to contact them on 0300 1234 999.