A WOMAN neglected her five Jack Russells by keeping them muzzled for long periods of time, a court has heard.

Christine Bowe, of Low Lane, Calne, has been banned from keeping dogs for the next five years after she pleaded guilty to neglect charges before magistrates at Swindon Crown Court on Monday, December 12.

Bowe, 56, admitted she had caused unnecessary suffering to one of the dogs known as Piglet and failing to meet the needs of her other dogs called Milo, Rosie, Muffy and Mr Blobby though the misuse of muzzles and failing to provide them with a suitable environment to live.

RSPCA inspector Miranda Albinson told the court that the animal protection charity was first alerted to the dogs after one had been found wandering the streets wearing a muzzle.

After a Facebook post reunited Bowe with her dog, inspectors visited the property and found evidence that the dogs had been forced to wear muzzles for long periods of time.

They also discovered a gosling with an untreated broken beak.

She said: "Muzzles are not an appropriate solution to stop dogs from barking or from causing destruction in the home. Anyone concerned about their dogs displaying unwanted behaviour should seek specialist help.

"Any muzzle must be properly fitted to ensure they do not cause injury, pain or distress and needs to allow a dog to undertake normal activities such as panting, breathing, vomiting and drinking."

As well as receiving a disqualification, Bowe was also fined £100 and ordered to pay costs of £100.