A Greenwich man who starved his dog has been banned for keeping animals for five years following an RSPCA prosecution last Tuesday.

David Anthony West, of Villas Road, pleaded guilty to failing to properly feed his Staffordshire bull terrier Tazer, after the RSPCA found the dog in an emaciated state earlier this year.

The RSPCA attended the property following concerns from a member of the public about the dog’s condition as well as the length of time Tazer was left in West’s flat alone.

The 43-year-old had admitted one offence previously, under section 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, of failing to provide a proper diet for Tazer between January 22 and March 22.

He was sentenced at Bexley Magistrates' Court and fined £50, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £60, £300 costs and £100 in vet fees.

He was also given a 12-month supervision order by the court.

RSPCA inspector Nick Wheelhouse said: “You only had to look at Tazer to know he hadn’t been properly looked after. There is no excuse for letting an animal get into that state.

“I’m pleased with the sentenced which demonstrates the courts take such cases of neglect very seriously.”