A Dawesville couple are accused of starving their elderly dog who was riddled with cancer and infections so bad he was put down.

Paul Cahal Cockburn and Heidi Newsome both sent pleas of not guilty to Mandurah Magistrates Court on Tuesday last week to not taking reasonable steps to prevent an animal suffering but did not appear in person.

RSPCA WA received a cruelty report in relation to the 12-year-old American bulldog in March this year.

When inspectors visited the pair’s home, they claimed the elderly dog was emaciated with a prominent pelvis, spine and ribs.

The inspectors also noted he was having difficulty supporting himself as his back legs were collapsing.

The dog was surrendered to the RSPCA WA, and a vet examination found he had an aggressive blood cancer.

RSPCA WA will

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