Two dogs were found living in piles of faeces and puddles of urine after their owner went on holiday, magistrates heard.

The Staffordshire bull terriers, called Bella and Spike, had been left in the care of Daniel Clark.

Concerns for the animals’ welfare led to the RSPCA visiting his home and finding them unattended in what was described as the “sparse and filthy” kitchen.

As well as living among excrement, the dogs had been left without food or water.

Medway magistrates heard Spike was in a barren cage, but without bedding, while Bella was left loose.

"These dogs were just left in absolute filth for at least 48 hours" - Nicholas Wheelhouse, RSPCA

It is thought the dogs had been left alone in this way for at least 48 hours.

Spike was also underweight and suffering from flaky skin.

The animals had been left in Clark’s care when their owner went on holiday in August.

Clark, 28, of Holly Tree Avenue, Swanley, admitted offences of failing to provide adequate diet and a clean environment under the Animal Welfare Act.

He was disqualified from keeping all animals for a year, given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £2,000 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

RSPCA inspector Nicholas Wheelhouse said after the hearing: “This case is a reminder of how important it is to get proper care for your animals when you are away.

“This case happened in the summer holidays - but it is important to bear this in mind at this time of year also when a lot of people go for winter breaks.

“These dogs were just left in absolute filth for at least 48 hours, perhaps longer, with no food or water or any attention to their needs, and a vet confirmed they were suffering.

“Thankfully they are both alright now, but had we not been called to the rescue who knows how long they would have been left alone like that or what would have happened.”