A Haverfordwest man was ordered to hand his dog over to the RSPCA today (Monday) after pleading guilty to two charges of animal cruelty.

Peter Hughes, of 164 West Court in Haverfordwest, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, and neglecting the duty of an animal owner to ensure its welfare.

Nick Devonald, who prosecuted on behalf of the RSPCA, described how Hughes, aged 60, was caught on CCTV when outside the Tesco store in Haverfordwest on Tuesday, October 27th.

"He was sat on a bench with his dog, called Ollie, attached to his wrist by a leash," he said.

"On the footage he is seen to strike Ollie over the head with his walking stick."

Mr Devonald said that moments later, another dog appeared and started fighting with Ollie, and that after the fight had stopped Hughes punched his dog over the head five times.

"The punches were hit with full force and afterwards the dog was timid and cowering away."

He said the footage was viewed by a Tesco security guard who informed a nearby police officer, who then attended the scene.

Mr Hughes was said to have then been discovered with alcohol on him and appeared 'drunk'.

"Upon being interviewed he had a very little recollection of what happened."

Defence lawyer David Lloyd attributed his client's behaviour to difficult personal circumstances. He explained that Hughes lived on his own and 12 months ago had been diagnosed with leukaemia. He said he had "lapsed into drinking" during the last two years.

"The night before the incident he was drinking at his house with associates and fell asleep," said Mr Lloyd.

"However, his two guests ended up fighting and the police were called. As a result, Mr Hughes was told to leave his own home."

The court heard how Hughes then spent the night walking the streets with his dog before going to Tesco the following morning and purchasing more alcohol.

"Ordinarily, the dog is looked after extremely well and these were extraordinary circumstances," added Mr Lloyd.

Hughes' daughter, Amy Jade Hughes, also gave evidence and told the court without the dog her dad had no one living with him.

She said she visited the house to walk the animal twice a day.

Magistrates consulted with an RSPCA officer whether regular inspections could be made if the animal was allowed to continue living with Hughes.

The officer said he could not offer a guarantee and therefore, Hughes was ordered to hand the animal over to authorities.

He was also ordered to pay £285 in fines and costs.