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Torquay man banned from owning dogs

Bella's happy again now (courtesy: RSPCA)

He hit and dangled spaniel

A Devon man's been banned from owning dogs for three years after mistreating his own pet in Torquay.

Robert Colin Phillips, 27, of Parkhill Road in the town pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to his dog last month. On Monday this week, Newton Abbott magistrates sentenced him to a 12 month community order during which he'll undertake 100 hours of unpaid work. He's also be ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £90 victim surcharge.

The young springer spaniel called Bella ran off from Mr Phillips after being startled by fireworks. When he caught up with her, he hit her in the neck twice before taking hold of her by the scruff of her neck and dangling her in the air.  Part of the attack was caught on CCTV.

A man saw Phillips strike Bella several times with some force. She then escaped a second time and re-appeared at the feet of the witness who took her into a restaurant to look after her while the police were called. 

The RSPCA say Bella is currently in a foster home with another dog that she loves. The young dog is very enthusiastic and is enjoying her new life in her foster home.  
 

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