A BOXER was allowed to starve after its owner failed to seek treatment for the dog's severe dental disease.

Owner Caroline McLeish has now been given a £280 fine and banned from keeping pets for three years.

An animal expert said Sasha's gums would have been painful to touch, her teeth were fractured, she had three tumours, kidney problems and hypothyroidism.

After the Scottish SPCA stepped in, the dog was given treatment but the decision was taken to put her to sleep.

Scottish SPCA Chief Inspector John Chisholm said, “This charge was dealt as McLeish failed to provide adequate nutrition and veterinary treatment to Sasha, a female Boxer, who, upon vet examination was scored with a body condition score of 1/5 with ribs, spine and pelvic bones easily evident from a distance.

“Sasha had inflamed and overgrown gums with evidence of a chronic bacterial infection.

"As well as this, several of her lower incisor teeth were fractured and diseased which was obviously painful to the touch.

“Three small tumours were found on various points of her body and a veterinary exam found Sasha to have renal compromise, dental disease and hypothyroidism."

Caroline McLeish, 49 of Douglas Street, Airdrie, was sentenced at Airdrie Sheriff Court on November 5.

McLeish pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering under section 19 of the Animal Health & Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

She was given a three year ban on owning animals and a £280 fine.

Mr Chisholm added: “Unfortunately, after struggling with various health issues, the decision was made to put Sasha to sleep.

“I’m happy the courts have dealt with this case, however it further highlights our push for tougher and more consistent sentencing.

"This level of neglect didn’t happen overnight and could have easily been avoided.”