A CREWKERNE man has been banned from keeping pets for 10 years after depriving his two pet dogs of food and water.

Jonathan Payne, 62, of Ashlands Meadow, was found guilty of one offence of failing to meet the need of his pets at Taunton Magistrates Court on Friday.

The court heard that Payne had not been giving his dogs, an Airedale Terrier called Sam and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier-cross called Chip, adequate food and water.

Officers from the RSPCA were called to Payne’s address after receiving a tip off from a member of the public.

When they arrived at the house, officers found the dogs were living outside with only one small kennel between them, the court heard.

The court also heard that despite notices of improvement delivered by the national charity, Payne did still not look after his pets adequately.

Payne was given a 10-year disqualification order of keeping all animals for 10 years, and was also ordered to pay court costs of £750.

The two dogs have now been removed from Payne’s care, and are currently in two foster homes.

RSPCA inspector Marie Griffiths, who investigated, said she was pleased with the outcome.

She said: “Sam and Chip were both living outside with shelter big enough for only one of the dogs.

“They were not getting enough water or food and were both in poor condition.

“We tried to work with Mr Payne to improve the welfare of the dogs, but despite issuing several improvement notices, he did not comply so we were left with no alternative other than to prosecute.

“I was shocked by Mr Payne’s utter refusal to give the pair enough food and water, and a vet advised that the dogs needed to be removed.

“Thankfully, Sam and Chip have been in lovely foster homes while we waited for this case to conclude and have wonderful new homes lined up for them to go to.”