A TRANENT man has been fined and banned from keeping dogs for five years after he neglected his own pet.

The punishment was handed to Robert Lunn, 25, of Ormiston Crescent West, after an SSPCA investigation.

Lunn’s dog Capone is an eight-year-old American bulldog and was found in extremely poor health but is now on the mend.

Lunn was fined £360 and sentenced at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last Friday, where he pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering.

Stephanie McCrossan, Scottish SPCA inspector, said: “Capone was found in an emaciated state lying in a cage soaked in his own urine. He had large wounds on his hind legs and was struggling to stand up.

“After being examined by a vet it was found that he had no overlying fat and was extremely dehydrated. Lunn had a duty of care and caused Capone to suffer by failing to provide an adequate diet and veterinary treatment.

“Thankfully Capone is on his way to a full recovery and, when he is ready, we will find him a loving forever home.

“We welcome the fact that Lunn 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.”