Starved dogs thrown out with rubbish

Sheridan Greer (23) was said to have left the dogs, along with two cats, at her then home in Reed Street, Burnley, when she had just split up with her boyfriend and was staying at another property.

The cats survived.

Burnley magistrates were told how the animals were found after police were alerted and went to the house. Officers then called in the RSPCA after making the gruesome discovery on January 26th.

The dogs, one of which belonged to her former partner, were said to have probably been starving for about four weeks.

Greer, now of Haydock Street, Burnley, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to the dogs and allegations of not taking reasonable steps to ensure the needs of the dogs and the cats were met. She had no previous convictions.

The defendant was given 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, with supervision and must attend the Lancashire Women’s Specified Activity Requirement.

She was also ordered to pay £200 costs and an £80 victim surcharge.

The Bench disqualified her from owning or keeping animals for life.

Mr Geoff Ireland (defending) said Greer had lost her benefits last December, was struggling for money and it was Christmas.

He told the hearing: “Her boyfriend had left her and left his dog with her.”