A Harrietsham woman who kept her dogs in squalor has been banned from owning animals for 10 years.

Charlotte Giles chained German shepherd Shadow and West Highland terrier Benji to dilapidated kennels in the back garden of her home at Water Lane Caravan Site.

When RSPCA inspectors visited the address in June they found the dogs living in filthy conditions, visibly malnourished and poorly maintained.

Shadow had an infected wound on his neck which was caused by the chain he was wearing and had not been treated by Giles. Both dogs were taken away by the inspectors.

The 52-year-old admitted three offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 – one of causing unnecessary suffering relating to Shadow’s injury and two of failing to provide suitable diets and environments for the dogs.

She appeared at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court last month.

At another hearing there this week magistrates told Giles her offences were so serious she must carry out 250 hours of unpaid work within the next year.

They also imposed a deprivation order meaning all pets will be taken from her and she was banned from keeping any animals for a decade.

Ellie Burt, an RSPCA inspector who attended the property, said: “Poor Shadow and Benji suffered needlessly.

“This was a very upsetting case and it was very sad to see that the condition of these dogs had been allowed to deteriorate.

“Thankfully, we can now find them the loving homes they deserve.”