A cruel pet owner who left his dog in such a neglected state it grew foot-long DREADLOCKS has been banned from keeping animals for life.

Paul Padmore, 58, failed to ever brush or groom his Yorkshire terrier Poppy despite owning her for 13 years causing her coat to become severely matted and overgrown.

Magistrates heard a member of the public called the RSPCA after becoming concerned for the poorly pooch as it could barely walk.