Dog cruelty owner facing jail

The bitch and a male bull terrier had been living in a flat by themselves while the owner lived on the floor above, magistrates were told. The female dog had been kept in a plastic kennel on a balcony outside the flat and was found dead by RSPCA inspector Neil Tysall on October 22.

She had been fed that day and it is believed the shock of the food after so long without anything to eat was the cause of the animal's death. Andrew Jason Wheeler, aged 21, of Burnham Court, Lower Derry Street, Brierley Hill, admitted causing unnecessary suffering at Dudley Magistrates' Court.

He also admitted failing to take reasonable steps to prevent the two dogs from suffering and providing unreasonable care and supervision. Magistrates yesterday told Wheeler he could receive a custodial sentence for the offences.

Mr Nick Sutton, prosecuting on behalf of the RSPCA, said a post mortem revealed that although the female dog had been fed that day, she had not been given food for a "considerable" amount of time before then. The male dog, which was in "a very thin state" was locked in the bathroom with two empty bowls. The court heard Wheeler had previously been warned about keeping the female dog on the balcony.

Mrs Amanda Jenkins, defending, said Wheeler adores dogs and had been too upset to look at photographs taken by the inspector.Chairman of the bench Mr Andy Clarke granted Wheeler unconditional bail and adjourned the case until Monday.

Jason John May, aged 30, of Burnham Court, Lower Derry Street, Brierley Hill pleaded not guilty to causing unnecessary suffering, not providing the dogs with a suitable diet or environment and not ensuring their need to exhibit normal behaviour patterns. His trial was fixed for June 12.