A man has been disqualified from keeping animals for three years after he neglected a cat, a collie dog and two tortoises.

Neil Raines, 44, of Dammersley Close, Markyate, had previously pleaded guilty to neglecting Sue, a two year old black cat, Lucky, a 14 year old black and white collie dog, and two tortoises, all of which havebeen rehomed.

He appeared at St Albans Magistrates’ Court last Wednesday and was also given a six month community order with a week curfew from 8pm to 8am and made to pay £780 costs.

RSPCA inspector Rachel Smith said: “The needs of these animals were just not being met. A suitable environment had not been provided for Sue, who was kept enclosed in a cat basket over a litter tray and not allowed to roam. She was also suffering from extreme weight loss and had not been taken to a vet to be treated for this.

“Lucky, the not-so-lucky collie, had not been given a suitable environment or diet and the two tortoises had not been given the light or heat that they need to survive.

“The message here is that taking on the care of any animal is a big responsibility and it is important to remember the animals involved are completely dependent on this care.

“Anyone taking on such a duty needs to think carefully to make sure they have the time and resources to do so.”