A MOTHER of three who took her dog to the vet gave a neighbour's details and left without paying for the animal's treatment.

Burnley magistrates heard how Dawn Christie, 34, who has more than 120 previous convictions, had been told to go to the bank for some money, but that was the last the vet's receptionist saw of her.

Christie, said to have 'adjustment disorder' and to be unable to cope with not having her children with her, was sent to prison for a total of five months

She was told by the magistrates her record was 'absolutely appalling,' she was a persistent offender and had committed crime while on bail. They added her life was not going to improve until she did something about it -- there was nothing anybody else could do.

Christie, of Herbert Street, Burnley, admitted two counts of theft and one of obtaining services by deception.

Julie Reddish, prosecuting, said the defendant told the vet she would pay the £26 bill on her dog's next appointment, but was told she couldn't and should go to the bank and get some money.

When she didn't return, the name and address she had given were checked and turned out to be those of a neighbour, who was very upset Christie had used her details.

The neighbour was able to say who the culprit was after description of Christie and the dog were given to her.