A couple who prosecutors say left their 10-year-old German shepherd Raven suffering with open sores and infected wounds because of financial concerns resolved the case yesterday — one by having the case dismissed and the other pleading no contest to misdemeanor animal neglect.

Betty Lockett pleaded no contest in return for a maximum of 10 days jail and probation when she is sentenced July 22. Charges were dismissed against her husband, Donald.

The District Attorney’s Office only required one half the couple to accept a plea settlement, said Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe.

The change of heart vacated a scheduled June 22 jury trial and the possibility of up to a year in jail.

The District Attorney’s Office lodged the criminal charge against the Locketts after receiving the case from the Peninsula Humane Society. PHS received a digital photo of Raven via its complaint address on its Web site in mid-January and contacted the couple for further investigation, according to PHS spokesman Scott Delucchi.

Raven was a 10-year-old German shepherd but looked 21 because he was in such poor health, Delucchi said.

The dog had clouded eyes, an emaciated frame, hair missing around a bandage on an open sore and live maggots living in his left ear canal, according to the prosecution.

The last record of medical treatment was in August 2005 for the dog which had an incurable skin condition, Wagstaffe said.

He was ultimately euthanized and the Locketts charged after the necropsy.

The couple allegedly told authorities they were financially strapped and didn’t think a veterinarian could help. Instead, they wanted the dog to die naturally at home, Wagstaffe said.

They remain free from custody on their own recognizance.

Michelle Durand can be reached by e-mail: michelle@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 102.