A dog owner has been banned from keeping animals after a six-month campaign of neglect against his pet.

James McLelland, 67, pleaded guilty at Jedburgh Sheriff Court to an allegation of causing unnecessary suffering to his terrier, Trixie.

He was banned from keeping animals for five years and handed a fine of £300 over his neglect of Trixie, who went through pain over a long period because the owner did not take her to a vet to have a skin condition treated.

The dog also suffered hair loss because of being badly affected by fleas between February and August.

Animal welfare charity the Scottish SPCA welcomed the five-year ban on McLelland, from Eyemouth in the Borders.

It said any dog owner would have been expected "to have sought immediate veterinary treatment".

Scottish SPCA inspector Stephanie McCrossan said, "Trixie was in a lot of pain due to a longstanding and untreated skin condition. Trixie was also suffering from hair loss due to fleas.

"We would expect any animal owner to have sought immediate veterinary treatment for a condition that could have been easily prevented.

"We welcome the fact that McLelland has been dealt with by the court and the sentence handed down, we hope he will give serious consideration about his suitability to care for other animals in the future.

"Trixie has now received the proper medication and treatment and has made a full recovery; she will be joining her new family this weekend."