Man inflicted 'appalling' violence by beating dog in Gloucester

Hugo will be rehomed after being signed over in court

A man who was caught on CCTV attacking his dog has been banned from keeping animals for seven years.

Scott Birt, 21, from Newent, was cycling in Gloucester when he was filmed inflicting "appalling and unnecessary" violence on his dog Hugo.

Following an investigation and prosecution by the RSPCA, Birt was also ordered to carry out 100 hours unpaid work.

Hugo will be rehomed after being signed over in court.

Warning - this story contains details and a picture of animal abuse which readers may find distressing.

Birt, of Poinsettia Way, Newent, Gloucestershire, pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court. He was sentenced on 11 October.

The RSPCA said Birt was captured on CCTV while he was cycling with another man and his dog on 1 February.

Footage, which was shown in court, showed Hugo trailing behind, before Birt got off his bike.

"At this point, Hugo cowers down in fear, seemingly in expectation of physical assault," the RSPCA said.

Scott Birt was caught on camera attacking his dog Hugo in Gloucester

"Birt then kicks Hugo in the side of his head, causing Hugo to fall backwards.

"He goes on to punch Hugo before holding him down to continue to assault him.

"He then stands on the dog's lead to stop him escaping as he delivers further punches before dragging him towards his bike."

No excuse

Speaking after the conclusion of the case, RSPCA inspector Jack Alderson, who investigated for the animal welfare charity, said: "Birt inflicted appalling and totally unnecessary violence on Hugo.

"There is never an excuse for treating an animal in this way."

Birt cannot appeal to have his animal ban lifted for four years.

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