A Southmead woman is banned from owning a dog for five years after starving her pet.
Orla Gil-Henry, of Shetland Road, left her Staffordshire Bull Terrier Niah in an “emaciated” condition before a neighbour reported her to police.
The 39-year-old was handed a 12-month community order yesterday (December 18) at Bristol Magistrates' Court, after admitting she caused her dog unnecessary suffering by starving it.
Prosecutor May Li said police became aware of the neglect when officers attended Shetland Road on July 29, while dealing with an unrelated matter.
She added: “A neighbour approached the police and told them Miss Gil-Henry owned a Staffy in poor physical condition, and often left in the garden for long periods of time.
“The officers were also shown a photo of the dog which showed she was clearly emaciated.
“On that basis the officers knocked on her door and explained they needed to look at the dog.
“Miss Gil-Henry opened the back door and the dog Niah ran straight up to a baby bath on the floor, drinking from it furiously as if she had been deprived of water for some time.”
'Very skinny'
Police observed the dog was “very skinny”, with vertebrae, hips and ribs protruding.
“They asked if the dog was fed and Miss Gil-Henry said she fed the dog three times a day,” Ms Li continued.
“Officers couldn’t find any evidence of dog food in the house and were concerned that if she were being fed three times a day, a vet should be informed due to its condition.
“The dog was seized and taken to a vet who stated that a dog of her breed should weigh at least 22kg. Niah weighed 15kg.
“She was clearly suffering, malnourished and emaciated. If left in that condition, she would have continued to suffer.”
Deputy District Judge Hodgkinson ordered Gil-Henry to pay £150 in compensation to Avon and Somerset police, to cover vet and kennel costs.
The defendant must also pay £135 in prosecution costs and a £90 victim surcharge. She cannot own a dog for five years.
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