A MAN and a woman have been disqualified from keeping animals for 10 years.

Jason Antony Arnold  and Kerry Ann Webber  both of Freemans View, Haverfordwest, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Tuesday).

Arnold pleaded guilty to three charges and and Webber pleaded guilty to one.

Arnold admitted that that on or before 14 July 2014 he did not take such steps to ensure the needs of a long haired cross bred dog named Rocky in regards to a suitable environment, ensure his need for a suitable diet including access to fresh drinking water and failed to protect him from pain, injury, suffering and disease as seen by his extensively matted hair coat.

Webber admitted that she failed to protect him from pain, injury, suffering and disease.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “Rocky was so matted the poor dog could not see. He had to be sedated to clip him properly.

“Just brushing him daily and a clip would have sorted this out. It is very sad it had to come to this. If you are not coping just ask for help.

“He is such a nice and friendly dog and will now be rehomed.”

Arnold and Webber were both disqualified from keeping animals for 10 years and were ordered to pay £500 costs and a £60 victim surcharge each.

Magistrates ordered Arnold to undertake 90 hours of unpaid work and Webber was given 40 hours.

If you would like to help the RSPCA, you can give £3 by texting HELP to 78866 (text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).