Two people from Canning Town have been banned for keeping animals for life after five flea-ridden dogs were rescued by welfare officers.
The Staffordshire Terriers were seized from the property in Ford Park Road in March after Newham Animal Welfare teams were alerted by a concerned member of the public.
It was apparent at the time of rescuing that the dogs had been suffering for a significant period of time.
They were taken to a vets surgery where the vet examined the dogs stated that it was the worst case she had dealt with in her career in terms of the level of cruelty and neglect.
All five dogs were found to have significant health problems, including substantial hair loss, flea infestation and injuries caused by fighting with other dogs.
The property they were seized from was covered in faeces and there was no obvious access to food or water.
George and Georgina Reynolds, aged 80 and 58, both pled guilty to charges of animal cruelty at Thames Magistrates Court.
Both had previously lied about owning just two animals whilst attempting to hide the other three.
They were spared jail terms due to their ages and vulnerability.
Instead, George Reynolds must wear an ankle bracelet and has been subject to a curfew.
Georgina Reynolds was ordered to serve 150 hours of unpaid community service.
The council was granted costs totalling more than £4,000.
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Cllr Amar Virdee, Cabinet member for Housing Needs, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Community Safety and Crime, said: “This is one of the worst cases of animal cruelty and neglect that many of the professionals involved had ever witnessed.
"It is wonderful to share that after receiving months of veterinary care and treatment these five dogs have now been happily re-homed."
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