A MAN whose dog had to be put down because after being found gravely ill has been slapped with a ban on owning pets.

Anthony Storer allowed Boxer Sasha to slowly deteriorate to such a state vets couldn't help her.

The poor animal suffered three small tumours, inflamed and overgrown gums, was severely underweight and had renal compromise, dental disease and hypothyroidism.

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Storer, of Douglas Street, Airdrie, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to animals at Airdrie Sheriff Court on April 1.

Scottish SPCA chief inspector John Chisholm said: “This charge was dealt as Storer 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 her 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.

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“Unfortunately, after struggling with various health issues, the sad 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."

Storer was fined £300 and banned from owning dogs for two years.

His co-accused Caroline McLeish was sentenced to a three year ban on owning animals and a £280 fine on November 5, last year.

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