POLICE called to a surgery rumpus found a woman shouting abuse at a vet and staggering about.

Burnley magistrates heard how Pamela Smith, 45, had become upset because her dog may have to be put down.

Smith, of Leeds Road, Nelson, admitted breaching the peace and was bound over in the sum of £100, for 12 months.

An allegation of drunk and disorderly was withdrawn.

The court was told how officers were called to the veterinary surgery on Leeds Road and saw a woman behaving in a disorderly manner outside.

As they approached, they could see her eyes were glazed, she smelled of drink and was staggering about.

Smith was shouting abuse at the vet and ended up being arrested after police tried to sit her on a wall and calm her down.

Glen Smith, defending, said Smith's son was supposed to have been looking after the dog but it was found in a poor state.

The defendant took the animal to the vet's and it was suggested it may have to be put down.

Smith, who had had some drink, felt responsible and also upset.

Smith apologised for her behaviour and knew she had been out of order.

She was acting out of frustration and it was not aimed at anybody in particular.