A WASHFORD woman has been found guilty of mistreating more than ten dogs, six birds, a cat and a tortoise.

Heather Stanton, of Williton Road, Washford, appeared at Taunton Magistrates Court on Wednesday, December 12, to face the charges.

Stanton, 60, pleaded not guilty to mistreating 13 dogs between January and February earlier this year.

For two of the dogs, two Chihuahuas, the cases were dropped.

But Stanton was found to be guilty for the mistreatment of 11 other dogs, including a sheepdog, a Jack Russell Terrier, Chinese Crested type dogs and Pomeranian type dogs.

The animals had a number of conditions including eye and skin infections which were not treated.

Stanton was also found guilty of causing 'unnecessary suffering' of a white lionhead rabbit by confining the animal to the detriment of its wellbeing, to which she pleaded not guilty.

Stanton pleaded not guilty of causing suffering to a white domestic cat but was again found to be guilty.

She also admitted to the mistreatment of a tortoise and six birds in her care with a guilty plea.

Stanton will next appear at North Somerset Magistrates' Court on January 16 for sentencing.

The court was adjourned for a pre-sentencing report to be prepared for district judge Taylor.