12:51PM, Tue Mar 20, 2012

Hebburn Policeman Nurses Abandoned Staffie Jess Back To Health

By Adrian Hogg Location: Hebburn

PC Ian Slee with Jess

An emaciated dog has been nursed back to health by a policeman after it was found close to death.

Staffordshire bull terrier Jess was discovered in a flat in West Morland Court, Hebburn after bailiffs called to serve an eviction notice.

However PC Ian Slee decided to take Jess in - the second time he's taken a dog home from work.

She weighed just 7.7kg when she was rescued but eight months on is now a healthy 18kg and a firm fixture in the Slee household.

PC Slee, who is based at Hebburn police station, said: "Jess was, according to the RSPCA and vet, not far from death in an emaciated condition with her bones showing.

“She still shows some signs of aggression but she's fantastic. She also gets on great with my other two dogs and is a part of the family, although I have been warned if I bring any more dogs home I'll be moving into a kennel!"

Appearing at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on February 22, Alan Smith, 30, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a mastiff found dead at the flat.

He was jailed for 17 weeks. No charges were brought regarding Jess after Smith told magistrates the dog belonged to his girlfriend.