A PEMBROKE Dock man whose dog died while in his care has been handed a suspended jail term after causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals.

Charges related to the failure to investigate and address the poor body condition and weight loss of a male chow type dog and a female bulldog type dog, and not providing necessary veterinary care for the bulldog’s skin condition. The offences were at Wavill Crescent between November 28, 2023 and January 25, 2024.

Kane Watson, of The Terrace, The Dockyard, appearing before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on November 27, changed his plea from not guilty, electing a summary trial.

The 24-year-old further admitted failing to provide a suitable environment, suitable diet, fresh drinking water or adequate care and supervision for four animals for which he was responsible at Wavill Crescent - a male chow type dog, a female bulldog type dog, a bulldog type dog and a male lurcher type dog - on or before January 24, 2023.

Two further charges of a similar nature were dismissed on the grounds that no evidence was provided.

Watson was committed to prison for 32 weeks overall, suspended for two years. The reason for the custody was that one dog had died and another had suffered at the hand of the defendant. It was, however, suspended based on a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.

Watson must carry out 300 hours’ unpaid work within the next 12 months, supervised, and has been disqualified for 10 years from keeping animals or being party to an arrangement under which he is able to control or influence the way in which they are kept.

A surcharge of £187 to fund victim services was added to the costs of £750.

Prosecutor’s costs amounting to £5,355.48 are to be paid from central funds to the RSPCA.