A woman has been banned from owning animals for life after a dead dog was found in her garden.

Joanne Terry, 33, formerly of Third Avenue, Dagenham, received an eight-week suspended sentence for twelve months and was fined £380 for animal cruelty.

The poor animal, killed in a dog fight, was seen being attacked by another pair of canines when Barking and Dagenham Council’s street enforcement team visited the house in October – having been tipped off by neighbours.

When they got there they found a litter of eight bulldog puppies, so they returned with police the next day to rescue them.

Two other starved adult bulldogs were found in the house next door – previously also occupied by Terry – after officers heard them whining.

All the animals were examined by a vet, but one of the adult dogs had been neglected so badly he had to be put down.

Terry pleaded guilty to the offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 at Barkingside Magistrates Court on Friday, September 5.

The council took custody of the dogs, but the Post understands a new owner has already found for them

Cllr Laila Butt, cabinet member for crime and enforcement, said: “This is an extremely sad case of animal cruelty.

“We’re grateful to the neighbours who reported this to us. If they hadn’t come forward, there’s every chance this cruel behaviour would have gone on for longer, increasing the chances of more animals suffering.”

Read more:

Pet theft soaring in Barking and Dagenham

Mouse in Barking library prompts food ban