Anthony Thornton appeared at Leeds Magistrates' Court where he was sentenced.

The 50-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to failing to provide an adequate diet for the eight-year-old black and tan crossbreed dog called 'Arra'.

Thornton, of Rydall Street, Holbeck, also admitted failing to seek veterinary attention and treatment to remove a choker chain, which had become embedded
in Arra's skin.

RSPCA inspector Heidi Cleaver said: "I'm very pleased with the sentence passed by magistrates in this case.

"Our aim is to prevent cruelty to animals where we can, and I hope that banning Mr Thornton from keeping any further pets will do just that."
Reasons

Insp Cleaver visited Mr Thornton's home in August 2007 when he was advised to increase the amount of food he gave to Arra, and take him to a vet to check there were no underlying reasons for being so thin.

When she returned Mr Thornton hadn't complied.

He agreed to allow the dog to be taken to a vet, who found the embedded chain around Arra's neck and leg.

"It was so deep it had to be cut out, " said Insp Cleaver. "The vet's evidence said it must have been like that for at least seven days."

Magistrates were told that Mr Thornton believed he was doing all he could for the animals.

Mr Thornton won't be allowed to appeal the ban for five years. He was also ordered to pay £200 costs. Arra, and a cat owned by Mr Thornton, will now be re-homed.