A VET convicted of mistreating her own dogs has been struck off following a lengthy investigation.

One of Kerstin Vockert’s pets had to have an eye removed and required extensive treatment after being taken away from her home.

The 56-year-old put a second dog to sleep after a visit from concerned RSPCA inspectors. A post mortem examination revealed it too had been ill-treated.

As reported in the Daily Echo last year, Vockert, who was in practice at Ark Aid Veterinary Clinic in Irving Road, Southbourne was fined £620 and ordered to pay costs of £300 after admitting cruelty to cocker spaniel Millie and 11-year-old Shih Tzu Happy. Both had severely matted fur that was caked in mud and faeces.

The clinic, which has since closed down, has no links with Ark Aid in Poole.

Vockert was living in Ringwood Road, Sopley at the time of the offences and the case was heard by Bournemouth magistrates.

A report was published by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons this week following a detailed investigation by a committee.

The report says: “The committee is concerned that the respondent’s conduct failed to demonstrate a full understanding of animal welfare needs which led to a prolonged period of neglect and suffering on the part of the animals.

“The committee is not satisfied that a period of suspension would be sufficient to protect the public, uphold professional standards, promote animal welfare and maintain public confidence on the veterinary profession.

“Accordingly the committee has decided that removal from the register is appropriate and proportionate in this case.”

A vet who examined Happy said an eye had to be removed and a full body shave was required.

He added: “In my opinion this dog would have been suffering with this extremely severe degree of matting.

“This level of matting would have represented chronic and prolonged neglect of the basic needs of the dog.”

After being removed from Vockert’s home, Happy made a full recovery and was adopted by a family.