A WOMAN has been banned from keeping a pet for 20 years after leaving her dog to starve.

Animal welfare charity the Scottish SPCA said Stacey Moran, 27, from Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, admitted failing to feed and provide vet care for her cross-breed Sasha. The dog had been shut in a dirty room and was 2.5kg underweight when found.

Inspector Sam MacDonald said: "Her spine and ribs were easy to feel through her coat.We are pleased Moran received a 20-year ban for the suffering she caused.

"We considered this to be a case of gross neglect."

Moran was sentenced at Airdrie Sheriff Court on Wednesday after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to her dog under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.