A man who dragged a 12-week-old squealing puppy on a lead, leaving her with wounds on her stomach, has been disqualified from keeping animals for five years.

Christopher Couper, 29, of Ivymeade Road, Macclesfield, pleaded guilty to one count of causing unnecessary suffering to the dog at Macclesfield Magistrates’ Court on Friday, April 1.

The RSPCA said members of the public contacted them when they saw Couper dragging the puppy called Roxy along the floor in Somerton Road, Macclesfield, in December last year.

RSPCA officers said the young Staffordshire bull terrier was seen squealing and whimpering as Couper pulled her along the pavement by her lead.

The incident left her with wounds to her chin, stomach and paws, as well as extensive bruising.

Staffordshire bull terrier Roxy, who was dragged along street by lead in Macclesfield by Christopher Coupe

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After the hearing, RSPCA inspector Heather Morris, who investigated the incident, said: “Couper said that Roxy, being a young puppy, had a habit of sitting down while being walked.

“She did this while Couper was walking her on this occasion, and instead of stopping with her, he dragged her along very roughly on the pavement and was witnessed shouting abuse and swearing at the young, frightened dog.

“Members of the public intervened, which led to him lifting her up with the lead and dangling her from her collar, before running off and leaving the dog behind.

“Couper said he was drunk – but this is no excuse to treat an animal in this way.”

Roxy has now been signed over into the RSPCA’s care.

A spokesman said: “We’re pleased to say that Roxy now has a new home lined up for her.”

Couper was disqualified from keeping animals for five years, given a four-week curfew and ordered to pay £450 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.

Roxy has now found a new home