A RUNCORN woman has been banned from keeping all animals for 10 years and given an eight week suspended prison sentence after admitting five animal neglect charges.

Kylie Mazier, aged 25, of Petersgate, Murdishaw, was also ordered to pay £500 costs and take part in a drug rehabilitation programme when she appeared at North Cheshire Magistrates Court.

She was prosecuted as the responsible owner of a cat and two dogs by the RSPCA under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

She pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a female black Staffordshire bull terrier called Angel by failing to seek veterinary care for its chronic ear disease, between June, 2013 and September, 2013.

She pleaded guilty to failing to provide a suitable environment and diet for the dog, leaving her unable to express normal behaviour patterns.

She admitted failing to meet the welfare needs of the dog and two cats, a white female cat called Princess and a black male cat called Bouncer between September 22 and 24, 2013.

After the hearing at Runcorn Magistrates Court on Tuesday, August 19, RSPCA inspector Lisa Lupson said: "I think the sentence reflects the seriousness of the offence and I hope this sends out a clear message that people cannot just disregard their animals."

Anyone who suspects animal neglect can call the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 to report cruelty or an animal in distress. The call will cost the same as any call to a UK landline number.