A couple whose dog was found starving and tied to a fence have been disqualified from owning a dog for five years.

David Barnard, 35, and Lisa Stamford, 32, of Newick Road, Moulsecoomb, Brighton, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to their dog on August 22.

Brighton magistrates heard an RSPCA inspector found the couple's dog Kanga tied to a fence without water or shelter.

Andy Foreman, prosecuting, said: "It was obvious to the inspector that the dog was extremely underweight.

"The inspector said she was tied to the fence in their garden on such a short tether that she could not reach shelter or water."

The German shepherd, which has since been rehomed, was taken to a vet who confirmed that she was emaciated and had suffered muscle wastage.

Laurence Lobo, defending, said: "This is not a case of wilful neglect. The defendants were just incompetent.

"The acquisition of the dog was meant to be a pleasant thing for them and their children. They are mortified that what was supposed to be an enriching experience has turned into these proceedings."

The court ordered the couple to pay £100 each in costs and compensation of £636.37 to the RSPCA.

They were disqualified from owning a dog for five years and will have to carry out 60 hours' community service each.