A WOMAN has been banned from keeping dogs for 15 years after leaving her pet poodle in a rabbit hutch with no food or clean water.
Sunny was rescued in an "appalling" condition when RSPCA inspectors visited Margaret Rayner's home in east Hull.
He was emaciated and suffering from a serious skin condition.
RSPCA inspector Hannah Bryer found Sunny in the hutch with no bedding, food or clean water.
She said: "Sunny was deprived even the basic provisions of food, clean water and warmth by the very person who was meant to care for him.
"Sunny was left to suffer despite his owner qualifying for free veterinary care at the PDSA in Hull.
"Sunny's condition when I found him was appalling. He was subdued and disinterested in his surroundings."
Sunny was seized by the RSPCA and taken to Swanbridge Veterinary Hospital in Swanland, where he was diagnosed with a chronic skin condition.
His fur was severely matted and had to be shaved off.
Sunny was found inside the damp rabbit hutch in the garden surrounded by excrement when inspectors visited the house in Middlesex Road last November.
There was no bedding or food and only dirty, stagnant water available.
Miss Bryer said: "He was very thin and his ribs, hips and spine could be easily felt. His coat was heavily matted throughout and was dirtied. His skin appeared inflamed and thickened. His ear smelt foul and he had some discharge of the eyes."
After he was treated, Sunny was looked after by a foster carer and has since gained 2kg.
Rayner admitted causing unnecessary suffering by failing to seek veterinary attention and failing to meet the dogs welfare needs when she appeared at Hull Magistrates' Court.
As well as the ban, she was deprived of ownership of Sunny, which means a permanent home for him can be found.
Miss Bryer said: "The foster carer who has looked after him throughout the duration of this case has done an amazing job with him and he is now full of energy and character.
"He is a playful and friendly little dog and seeing the progress he has made since the RSPCA's intervention is very rewarding.
"Sunny is an elderly dog and deserves to live out the rest of his days in comfort."
Rayner was also given a 12-month community order and ordered to pay £250 costs.
Anyone who wishes to adopt an animal should call the RSPCA centre in Clough Road on 01482 341331.
