A WOMAN who once looked after rescue dogs for the RSPCA has been banned from keeping animals indefinitely.

Kennel owner Joyce Denwood, 43, used to be a well-respected dog breeder and took in animals for the animal charity and councils, a court heard.

However, RSPCA inspectors discovered animals in appalling conditions when they raided her home in March.

“The officer could smell the kennels before she could see them,” said Alison Collier, prosecuting.

Denwood, now of Oakmead Road, Point Clear, had admitted causing unnecessary suffering and failing to protect her animals from injury and disease.

Mark Francis, mitigating, said her troubles started after she suffered a breakdown and was “overwhelmed” by emotional problems and lack of money.

Denwood was banned from keeping animals indefinitely and must wait at least a year before applying to have the ban lifted.

Denwood must also do 120 hours’ unpaid work and pay £1,750 RSPCA costs. The charity claimed the case cost them almost £5,800.