A Wangaratta woman who failed to seek veterinary care for her sick dog, which was later put down, has been banned from owning other dogs for five years.
Amylee Lennane's Staffordshire Terrier, Misty, hadn't been seen by a veterinarian since 2015 despite having obvious problems.
RSPCA inspectors went to Lennane's home on February 12 last year amid concerns for the dog's welfare.
An examination showed multiple issues, including a serious skin condition and discharge from the dog's ears.
The Wangaratta Court on Thursday heard the female dog had a bad smell and her skin and coat were "extremely dirty".
RSPCA prosecutor Natalie Perera told the court Lennane was instructed to have the dog examined by a vet.
Lennane claimed to have sought treatment for Misty six months earlier, but checks showed she hadn't been checked for five years.
The dog owner was given a notice to comply with a vet examination, but she elected to have the dog surrendered.
The female dog was examined at the Warby Street clinic and was found to have infected ears, hair loss and malnourishment.
An RSPCA veterinarian took care of the dog from February 21.
Despite the staffy adding weight while being cared for in a dog shelter, she had to be put down on humane grounds due to the skin disease.
RSPCA staff believed the disease had likely been left untreated for months, possibly longer.
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Ms Perera said the dog would have experienced pain and suffering, and most people would realise treatment was needed.
Lawyer Geoff Clancy said his client had been struggling for money at the time and her child needed regular hospital treatment in Melbourne.
"This was not over an extended period ... we say it was less than three months," he said of the neglect.
"This was a very much loved family pet.
"They'd had it for five years."
She admitted to charges of failing to provide treatment to a sick animal and failing to provide food, drink or shelter.
Magistrate Lance Martin said caring for pets was a big responsibility.
He placed Lennane on an adjourned undertaking to be of good behaviour for a year and ordered she pay $313 in costs to the RSPCA.
"I also make an order that you are disqualified for a period of five years from being a person in charge of dogs," Mr Martin said.
