TWO people from Cinderford were given suspended prison sentences and have been disqualified from keep-

ing animals for two years after failing to feed their dog properly.

Layla Allsopp, who is 19, and 21-year-old Corey Jones of Albert Road, admitted failing to meet the needs of 12-year-old Max, contrary to section nine of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The Staffordshire bull terrier, whose weight was more than 20 per cent lower than was expected, has recovered after being seized by police and handed over to the RSPCA.

The pair were sentenced to a two year

disqualification from keeping animals and a suspended prison sentence when they appeared before magis-

trates in Cheltenham on Monday (September 5).

When Max was first discovered he was significantly underweight at 15.7kilos, with an estimated ideal body weight of 20kgs.

Following a visit to a vet, Allsopp and Jones were asked to ensure that he was seen and weighed regularly, and if he failed to put weight on then the weight loss should be explored.

The pair failed to return to the vet after ignoring several remin-

ders to attend.

RSPCA inspector Suzi Smith said: “Mr Jones said he hadn’t taken the dog back because he thought he was looking better.

“In fact, he had lost a further half a kilo.”

“A blood test found nothing to indicate any illness. The police seized the dog and he was placed in our care and very quickly began to put weight on. 

“He is now 20Kg and back to full health despite his age. This was simply by providing food.

“Too often I hear from owners of elderly animals that the animal is thin because it is old yet they have not sought veterinary attention to actually find out.  

“Provision of veterinary care is part of meeting the needs of an animal and owners should ensure they are capable of providing this.”

Allsopp and Jones were both given eight week custodial sentences, suspended for one year, and ordered to pay £50 each court costs, alongside the two year disqualification.

Max was signed over to the RSPCA at the court hearing and will soon be looking for a loving retirement home.