A mother and daughter have been banned from keeping animals for life after letting their pet dog get to a “horrifying” state of health.

Rosemary and Rachel Robinson, 42 and 20 respectively and from Lewes Road, St Leonards, appeared at Hastings Magistrates Court on March 17 in relation to charges against their Pointer cross, George.

They were found guilty in their absence of animal welfare offences including failing to investigate andtreat George's declining condition, mobility and weight loss.

As well as the ban, Rosemary Robinson was given a community order for six months, a six month curfew from 8pm to 6am and made to pay £1,003 costs and £60 victim surcharge.

Rachel Robinson was given a community order for 12 months involving 100 hours unpaid work and she was made to pay £703 costs and £60 victim surcharge.

The RSPCA was called with concern in February after George was taken to a vet who was horrified by his state of health.

RSPCA inspector Zoe Ballard said: “George was one of the thinnest dogs I have ever seen and had clearly been deteriorating and suffering for some time.

“As well as being emaciated he had lumps and masses all over his body and was suffering from a chronic lung condition caused by lack of worming.

“He had deteriorated to such an extent that he was living in constant pain - It was obvious at first glance that he should have been taken to a vet a long time before.”