A WOMAN from Penzance has been sentenced for 'prolonged incidents of serious neglect' towards a dog. 

Lauren Angela Downes, aged 38, of Parc Mellan in Penzance, appeared in front of magistrates at Truro Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, July 26 on one count of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. 

The offence took place between October and December 2022 in Penzance where Downes caused unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, namely a female brindle and white Staffordshire bull terrier type dog known as Ruby, by failing to provide veterinary treatment in respect of the dog's chronic dental disease, and knew or ought to have known that the failure would have that effect or be likely to do so.

Downes pleaded guilty to the offence on June 28, 2022. 

During her sentencing, Downes was committed to prison for 12 weeks, suspended for 18 months. The court noted that custody was appropriate given the prolonged incidents of serious neglect that caused very high levels of suffering to the dog, despite warnings and professional advice.

She was also banned from owning animals, keeping animals, participating in the keeping of animals, and being party to an arrangement under which he is entitled to control or influence the way in which animals are kept for a period of 15 years. Downes was further disqualified from dealing in animals, transporting animals, and/or arranging for the transport of animals.

Downes will also have to take part in a rehabilitation activity for a maximum period of 10 days as well as carry out unpaid work for 200 hours within the next 12 months.

Downes will also have to pay a surcharge to fund victim services of £154 and pay costs of £400. The court also noted how the prosecutor's costs were to be paid from central funds to the RSPCA and was assessed in the amount of £1694.52.