A WINCHESTER man ignored ill-health in four dogs and has been convicted of causing unnecessary suffering.

Alexander Thomas Wilson, 32, narrowly avoided an immediate prison term and was hit with a suspended sentence. He has been banned from keeping animals for life.

Wilson pleaded guilty to the offence by failing to adequately investigate or address signs of ill health in four Presa Canario-type dogs named Bonnie, Bully, Narla and Cleo.

The signs were loss of appetite, weigh loss and excessive thirst, magistrates were told.

READ MORE HERE: Mass fight in The Square in Winchester

He also admitted failing to keep Narla and Cleo in a suitable living environment.

Wilson, of Cranbourne Drive, Otterbourne, had initially denied the charges in March in a prosecution brought by the RSPCA, a court heard.

The offences took place between January 1 and April 6 2022 at a property in Wimpson Lane, Southampton.

Southampton Magistrates Court jailed him for 16 weeks but suspended the sentence for 18 months.

He was also ordered to carry out 300 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months, the maximum length a court can impose, as well as pay a victim surcharge of £128.

SEE MORE: Controversial changes for taxis at Winchester train station

The lifetime ban on keeping animals will be suspended for 28 days to allow any rehousing of animals.

The prosecution costs of £17,570.08 will be paid from central funds.

The RSPCA has been contacted for comment.