Man given animal ban over Staffie dog left in squalid flat with ear hanging off

A man has been banned from keeping animals for five years after three Staffordshire Bull Terrier-type dogs were found living in filthy conditions in his flat.

One, a brown and white female called Harley, was discovered by the RSPCA in May last year suffering from a severe ear injury.

WARNING: Graphic image below.

Dean Kenneth Savage, 45, of Crescent Road, Crumpsall, Manchester, admitted a charge of causing Harley unnecessary suffering by failing to provide prompt veterinary treatment. Savage also pleaded guilty to a further welfare charge under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 relating to the needs of Staffies called Joker and Snowflake.

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The RSPCA attended his flat after a tip-off. A spokesperson for the charity said after a sentencing hearing in court: "The court heard that the dogs were kept in an unhygienic environment and were not provided with clean water at all times, or a clean and dry comfortable place to rest.

"In addition, Savage failed to separate the dogs to prevent fighting as necessary, and did not provide veterinary treatment for the dogs when required."

Animal Rescue Officer, Steve Wickham, described in a witness statement how Harley was in 'discomfort' and 'shaking' her head. He said: "Once the dog was out in the daylight I was shocked by what I could see." Harley's left ear was said to be 'hanging on by a very small amount of skin'.

The RSPCA said a cage the dogs were locked up in was found in the front room, with ripped up rubbish and bedding inside it. The flat smelled of urine and dog faeces was found.

ARO Wickham added in his statement: "Joker was locked in the bathroom with a child gate so it couldn't get out of there. In the bathroom