A SOUTHAMPTON couple left their dog suffering with a skin condition which saw him loose most of his hair and become covered in scabs.

Donna Prince, 19, and Kelvin Andrews, 22, of Warburton Road, pleaded guilty to one count of causing unnecessary suffering, between June 13 and June 15, 2016 at West Hampshire Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

The court heard the pair failed to get their Staffordshire Bull Terrier Tyson the necessary veterinary care for a skin disease which left him itching so badly he scratched off most his hair.

Magistrates ordered for the dog to be taken away from the couple before telling them to pay £50 in court costs and a £30 victim surcharge.

Inspector Tina Ward said: “We first became involved in January 2016 and gave advice to seek vet treatment for his skin condition. They did initially but didn't continue it.

“Pet owners need to realise that they have a responsibility to care for their animals. That includes ensuring any health issues are dealt with promptly to avoid distress to animals in their care.”