A dog seized by the RSPCA because of its neglected condition had to be put down, a court has heard.

Blackburn Magistrates' Court was told how the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, called Bentley, had a severe skin condition and some of its claws were so overgrown they had curled under and penetrated the pads on its feet.

The court was told the dog’s owner, Ian Johnathan Podmore, had previously been cautioned by the RSPCA for his treatment of another dog which also died.

Podmore, 41, of Ailsa Road, Blackburn, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and failing to ensure the welfare of an animal.

He was sentenced to eight weeks in prison suspended for 12 months with 13 days of rehab activities.

Podmore was also banned from owning dogs for 10 years and ordered to pay £100 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

Passing sentence, District Judge Alexandra Preston said she had been shocked by the photographs shown to the court.

“It would have been obvious to anyone that he would have been in serious discomfort and pain,” said District Judge Preston.

“This is the second time you have had a dog that has been in a terrible state.

“You shouldn’t own dogs because you clearly don’t know how to do it properly.”

Paul Ridehalgh, prosecuting for the RSPCA, said an RSPCA inspector attended at the defendant’s home and found the dog with an extensive skin condition, emaciated and with ingrowing claws.

Podmore admitted he had not provided any veterinary care for Bentley.

The dog was seized and passed into the care of the RSPCA.

“Despite extensive treatment his condition deteriorated and it was decided it was in his best interests to be euthanised,” said Mr Ridehalgh.

He said Podmore had been cautioned in 2019 for causing unnecessary suffering to another dog which also had to be put down.

“Clearly he should have known better this time,” said Mr Ridehalgh.

Ian Huggan, mitigating, said his client didn’t have the strength of character to refuse when a family member asked him to take on the dog.

“He thought he could help,” said Mr Huggan.

“He was using shampoo he thought would help and feeding the dog but clearly he should have sought veterinary care.”