A DUNFERMLINE couple neglected their dog so badly that it had to be put down.

As a result, Amanda Hunter, 51, and Anthony Paton, 52, both of Macbeth Road, appeared at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

Their lack of care led to the dog, named Rocco, suffering from a long list of ailments.

They admitted that between July 15 and September 2 last year at their home, they caused the animal unnecessary suffering.

They failed to provide appropriate care and treatment for chronic conditions, including skin conditions, lesions, ulcers, multiple fistulae, flea infestation, hair loss and overgrown claws and, as a consequence, the dog was put down on welfare grounds.

Depute fiscal Azrah Yousaf said the Crown would be seeking the imposition of orders banning both from keeping animals for three years.

Sheriff Charles MacNair called for reports. Hunter and Paton will return to court on August 2 for sentencing.