A WOMAN threw a spaniel puppy at a police officer who went to her home because she had threatened to kill herself.

Blackburn magistrates heard the puppy yelped in pain and urinated and was obviously distressed as it cowered in the corner of the room.

Angela Westell, 51, of Sutherland Street, Colne, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and assaulting a police officer.

She was made subject to a community order for nine months with 20 days rehabilitation activity requirement and ordered to pay £50 compensation to the police officer, £85 costs and £85 victim surcharge.

Alex Mann, prosecuting, said Westell had called the police saying she wanted to end her own life.

They attended at 3pm and were allowed in by her partner who was surprised they were there.

"The defendant became upset and angry and she violently launched the puppy at the officer, hitting him in the chest," said Mrs Mann.

"The animal was clearly distressed and was cowering in the corner."

Mrs Mann said the puppy and several cats that were at the house had been given to the RSPCA.