Cruel Bradley Powers pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering when he appeared before magistrates in Swansea, South Wales.
The 51-year-old admitted failing to investigate and address the causes of his dog’s poor bodily condition and weight loss and failing to provide proper and effective flea control.
The court heard how RSPCA officers visited his property and found an English Mastiff called Hercules was so emaciated that ”nearly every bone in his body" could be seen.
The dog was suffering a flea infestation and was in such poor condition that vets were left with no choice but to put it down.
RSPCA inspector Leigh Summers investigated Powers and described Hercules' treatment as "one of the worst cases of neglect ever seen".
She said: "When we arrived at the property we found Hercules to be extremely skinny in one of the worst cases of neglect I have ever seen as an inspector.
“You could see nearly every bone in his body.
"As well as not treating him for his weight loss, Hercules also had to suffer with a flea infestation, something which is easily preventable.
"Although his owner has now been convicted and has been banned from keeping animals, his actions meant that Hercules lost his life and was not able to get the second chance he deserved.”
PATHETIC SENTENCE - NOT ONE SINGLE NIGHT IN JAIL
Powers, from Swansea, was sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment suspended for two years.
He was also sentenced to a 10 day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and ordered to pay costs of £300 and £115 victim surcharge.
(Express UK - April 11, 2017)
