A couple have been banned from keeping animals after their pet dog was found in terrible condition, severely underweight and missing fur.
Fern, 19, and Peter Thoms, 20, ended up in court after RSPCA officers were tipped off about the state of their pet dog, Kizzy.
The officers were shocked to see the 12-year-old border collie in such poor condition, covered in scabs and pink inflamed skin.
Now, both Thoms, from Dawlish, Devon, have been banned from keeping animals after they appeared at Newton Abbot Magistrates Court.
A photograph was sent to the animal welfare charity and an inspector visited the couple’s home address following an anonymous tip.
RSPCA inspector Marije Zwager, who investigated for the charity, said: “The photographs show just what an appalling state Kizzy was in at the time of her rescue.
“She must have been so uncomfortable and itchy all the time resulting in her nibbling and scratching herself raw.
“Kizzy’s terrible condition could have been avoided if she was promptly taken to a vet and the owners had followed veterinary advice to manage her chronic skin condition.
“It should never have got to this situation, and should never have simply been treated with ineffective home remedies by those responsible for her care.”
Both Thoms were found guilty of one offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and given a three-year ban on keeping dogs and ordered to pay £200.
Kizzy was taken away from the pair, and has since recovered and been transformed while in the care of the RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre .