A man who stabbed a golden retriever with a knife has been jailed for six months.

Ronald Crossweller, 35, attacked the dog called Monti in a drunken rage at the home he shared with his partner in Portslade.

During the row with his partner, Sandra Lucas, he smashed up a television and a £90 nest of tables.

Lewes Crown Court heard Crossweller had held down the golden retriever on the sofa and plunged a kitchen knife into his chest.

The dog, which almost died, had to be taken to a vet for a punctured lung but has now recovered.

Crossweller admitted criminal damage, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and affray.

Judge Guy Anthony was told Crossweller's relationship with Ms Lucas had turned into a disaster. The attack happened after he had been drinking.

He had been committed to Lewes Crown Court for sentencing by Brighton magistrates.

Judge Anthony, sentencing, told him: "No matter how sour a relationship goes it is no excuse to behave the way you have.

"Not only did you inflict a near-fatal blow on the family pet, you also used the knife to threaten your partner."