AN American bulldog died a slow death with severe and chronic skin and eye disease because owner Nicholas Morris did not have the cash to get it treated.

Widower Morris, 53, of Wingate Road, Little Hulton said in court: “He was a family pet and I am ashamed that he got into such a mess. His eyes had been sore for about a year”

By the time he did seek the help of a vet in August it was too late and the six-year-old dog called Ringo had to be put down RSPCA prosecutor Anna McDonald told Manchester Magistrates' Court.

She added that the dog suffered significant hair loss and both eyes were full of yellow pus and was effectively blind.

“His death could have been avoided if he had sought treatment.” she said.

Morris, who pleaded guilty, said “I have had dogs in the past and they have been looked after properly."

The court heard that Ringo had had significant hair loss and rubbing and scratching had caused scabbing.“

The dog showed signs of aggression while being examined. He had to be sedated and was in such a bad condition had to be put down”, said Mrs McDonald. Morris, 53, of Wingate Road, Little Hulton, admitted causing unnecessary suffering.

He was sentenced to carry out 100 hours unpaid work, banned from keeping animals for five years and ordered to pay £300 costs and an £85 victim surcharge.

Magistrates told him: “We are not satisfied that you did as much as you should have done.”