A PET owner has been charged with causing a now-deceased dog unnecessary suffering for months by failing to provide the animal with adequate food, water or medical treatment when it was ill.

Crown prosecutors claim Chelsie Cleisham did not obtain veterinary advice or treatment for the dog which was suffering from health problems including weight loss, skin conditions, flea infestation and chronic ear conditions, according to court papers.

It is alleged that 28-year-old Cleisham failed to provide adequate care and treatment for the animal over three months from January to April this year at a flat on Lynedoch Street, and elsewhere.

Court papers alleged that Cleisham 'knew or ought reasonably to have known that said act or omission would have caused the suffering or be likely to do so' for the animal which she was responsible for.

She is also charged with failing to take reasonable steps to 'ensure that the needs of the animal were met to the extent required by good practice' at the same property on Lynedoch Street on April 20.

It is claimed that Cleisham failed to provide an adequate environment for the dog and exposed the animal to faeces and urine while failing to provide adequate hydration and nutrition for it.

The alleged offences centre around a claimed contravention of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act.

Cleisham, of Grenville Road in Gourock, was not present at Greenock Sheriff Court for an initial calling of the case and matters have been continued without plea until January 19.