A DOG owner has been convicted after he failed to take his cancer-stricken dog to the vet.

Cruel Jordan Fleming allowed Staffordshire bull terrier Oscar to become emaciated so that he could barely walk.

Animal charity staff were forced to have the dog put down to end its suffering.

A post-mortem examination showed the pet had not eaten for around six days prior to its death.

Following a Scottish SPCA investigation, the 21-year-old pled guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his Staffordshire bull terrier dog Oscar by failing to obtain veterinary treatment and allowing the dog to become emaciated.

Inspector Heather Lawson said: “Oscar was severely emaciated and he was barely able to walk. He weighed just 12.6kg when a dog of his breed should have been around 18-20kg.

“He also had a large testicular tumour and was very dehydrated.

“Sadly, the vet advised that the kindest option was to put Oscar to sleep to end his pain and suffering as he would not have recovered.

“A post mortem examination revealed that Oscar had no food present within his stomach indicating that he had not eaten for at least 4-6 days.

“This was a tragic case and we welcome the fact Fleming has been dealt with by the court and hope he will give serious consideration about his suitability to care for other animals in the future.”

Fleming, of Maxton Crescent, Wishaw, was sentenced at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday, August 1.

He was banned from owning or caring for dogs for two years and further sentencing was deferred for 12 months.