A BRECHIN man has denied causing animal cruelty after he appeared from custody at Forfar Sheriff Court.

Joseph Rizza, of Esk Park Terrace, denied that between December and March 13 he abandoned a female rottweiler/ ridgeback cross dog at Dalgety Farm in Kinnaird Park estate, resulting in its death and unnecessary suffering.

An intermediate diet was set for August 20, with a trial date pencilled in for September 15.

Rizza was granted bail subject to the condition that he be suspended from owning any dog until the resolution of the case.