TWO Hampshire men who subjected two innocent animals to “horrific” ordeals have received suspended prison sentences.

Scott Bicknell and George Cole both caused unnecessary suffering to animals at a property in Upham, near Bishop’s Waltham.

In one instance, Bicknell, 42, encouraged two dogs to maul a rabbit. In the other, Cole, 76, failed to provide veterinary care in respect of a lurcher dog.

The case was bought to Southampton Magistrates’ Court by the RSPCA, where the men pleaded guilty.

Chief inspector Will Mitchell, from thecharity, said: “A mobile phone was seized as part of a separate police operation which led to evidence of animal welfare concerns being uncovered and prompted warrants at two addresses in Hampshire. On the phone – which belonged to another man who isn’t part of our investigations – we found videos and Whatsapp messages.

“One of these videos showed Mr Bicknell in his garden setting his dogs on a wild rabbit and encouraging them to kill it. It’s really horrific footage to watch.”

The RSPCA joined Hampshire Police to execute warrants at two addresses in April.

There, officers found a female lurcher collapsed in a pile of hay in a barn.

CI Mitchell added: “The vet checked her immediately and she cried out in pain when he touched her.

“Her breathing was laboured and she was shaking. She was emaciated and weak.

“When officers helped her onto her feet they made a shocking discovery - a huge, ulcerated tumour under her abdomen. The vet said it had been there for months, possibly years.”

The dog was put to sleep to end her suffering.

Bicknell, of Kiln Lane, Alresford, was handed a 12-week prison term, suspended for two years, and was ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £300 in costs and a £115 victim surcharge.

Cole, of Alma Lane, Upham, was handed a 12-week prison term, suspended for two years, and was ordered to pay £300 costs and a £140 victim surcharge. He was disqualified from keeping all animals for five years.

Cole was disqualified from keeping all animals for two years.