Animal ban for family who kept dog in filthy 'cell'

THREE members of a family have been convicted after they confined their pet German Shepherd to a room ‘like a cell the RSPCA said.

- JAMES HOLT

The pup, which spent almost all day alone in the tiny room apart from being allowed out to eat and drink, also developed an ear infection, the charity said.

Leo was found smelling of urine with matted hair after being left in a bare 5ft by 6ft room at a flat on Covert Road, Oldham.

A vet's report said the dog spent most of the day inside the room and if the door was opened a baby gate was placed across it to prevent it leaving. After the dog was saved, it needed veterinary treatment.

Michael Newell, 31, of Shaw Road, Oldham, pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and was disqualified from keeping animals for 10 years when he appeared at Manchester magistrates court.

Susan Stewart, 51, of Covert Road, Oldham, pleaded guilty to two offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. She was also banned from keeping dogs for 10 years.