A HAMPSHIRE man has been banned for life from handling or owning dogs for seriously neglecting his own.

The German Shepherd known as Angel was picked up by Winchester City Council animal welfare officers in Hambledon in July last year.

Thought to be a stray at the time, she was extremely emaciated, having lost almost half her body weight during the five weeks she was owned by Barry Peach.

Hambledon-based Peach has been banned for life from handling or owning dogs following a hearing at Portsmouth Magistrates Court on Monday (JUNE 22).

He was ordered to pay £3,000 to the city council to cover legal costs, plus the costs of veterinary care and temporary fostering.

He was also fined £165 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge.

Cllr Frank Pearson, portfolio holder for environment, health and wellbeing, said: “Cases such as these are thankfully rare but they show that Winchester City Council takes responsible dog-ownership seriously and will not tolerate cases of neglect.

“Angel has been doing really well since she went into foster care and now has a permanent home where she will be fed, cared for and loved.”