A Blackwood woman has been banned from keeping animals for life after failing to get treatment for her suffering dog.

WARNING: Some readers may find the following images distressing

Nicola Mireille Jones, 29, of Brynglas Avenue, was sentenced at Cwmbran Magistrates’ Court today (18 December), after pleaded guilty to an Animal Welfare Act offence of causing her Husky crossbreed to suffer.

She will not be able to apply for her ban to be removed for a period of five years, while Ms Jones was also handed an 18-week prison sentence, suspended for two years.

RSPCA Cymru had been seeking to help Jones, and made multiple visits to her property related to the condition of her Husky dog, named Chad.

Sadly, Jones failed to provide Chad – who ultimately had chronic ear infections and deteriorating physical condition – with the veterinary care he so badly needed. His skin condition was so bad that vets reported the skin “falling away” when touched. The eight-year-old dog had to be put to sleep due to the extent of his injuries.

Jones must also pay a fine amounting to £443.18, and a victim surcharge of £122.

Gemma Black, RSPCA inspector, said: “RSPCA repeatedly tried to help this individual; but they did not ensure the dog had appropriate veterinary care to tackle Chad’s dreadful physical conditions and painful ear infections.

“Sadly, poor Chad’s skin got so bad that vets told us it was beginning to fall away when touched. There was simply no choice but to put this poor, suffering Husky crossbreed to sleep.

“This sad story is a reminder that people should always seek help if they are struggling to look after their dog. The inaction of Chad’s owner cost this dog dearly, and has led to her being banned from keeping animals ever again.”