An Auckland woman has admitted ill-treating her dog by failing to feed it properly for weeks, leaving it mange-ridden and emaciated.
Robin Olive was sentenced to 100 hours' community work and disqualified from owning a dog for five years when she appeared at the Manukau District Court on Thursday.
The dog when first seized by the SPCA in December last year. Photo: AUCKLAND SPCA
The SPCA says after a tip-off, her female whippet bull terrier cross was found tied up with backbones, hips and ribs clearly visible and covered in sores.
It says Ms Olive claimed that she was struggling financially and finding it hard to afford to give her dog food and medication.
The SPCA says it had, however, provided her with numerous food parcels and shelter for the dog in the past.
It says the case sends a clear signal to dog owners that being short of cash is no excuse for failing to provide animals with necessities, or asking for help.
The dog will be put up for adoption.
