A Dagenham woman is on trial accused of neglecting seven dogs including an ailing puppy that later died.

Police and RSPCA inspectors seized the pets after they raided the home of Victoria Montgomery, who was living in Barking at the time.

Southend Magistrates’ Court heard claims she failed to protect them from pain, suffering, injury and disease by not adequately treating their problems with fleas and worms.

RSPCA inspector William Rippon who attended Ms Montgomery’s home in October 2014, said that he spotted “obvious fleas moving” on one of the puppies.

Ms Montgomery told Mr Rippon that she wanted to give the dogs to her grandchildren and keep one for herself.

Prosecutor Hazel Stevens said the animals were lethargic and none had been microchipped and Ms Montgomery and others were allegedly involved in breeding and selling animals.

Seven dogs were seized but an adult Great Dane and another dog were left at the property.

The case will continue on Wednesday.