Man banned from keeping pets for verbally abusing his Rottweiler
A man has been banned from keeping pets after being prosecuted for verbally abusing his dog after he was recorded calling her a 'dirty little mutt'.
Joshua Ponsford, 23, pleaded guilty to one animal welfare offence after being prosecuted by the RSPCA.
Ponsford was banned from keeping animals for five years at Bristol Magistrates Court on November 4.
In the recordings, the dog owner, from St George, Bristol, can be heard shouting and screaming at his pet.
During one recording, which was 59 seconds long, Ponsford can be heard saying: 'Get in your f**king bed now, go in your bed now, now, now you f**king stay there. You dirty little mutt.'
The recording also contains thuds and yelps before Ponsford can be heard yelling 'you and your f*cking ball dog. I've had enough of all your hiding toys' and 'shut it'.
A second recording, which is 57 seconds long, also included examples of Ponsford's treatment towards Lulu.
His voice can be heard saying: 'Going to walk to the shop again and get myself some bits. Don't even think of robbing' before a dog is heard yelping, whimpering and barking.
The third recording of 17 seconds contains the sound of Lulu screaming before Ponsford is heard saying 'I'll f*cking ave you' followed by the sound of Lulu whimpering.
As the recording continues, Ponsford shouts 'move' before the sound of repeated thuds and Lulu yelping followed by Ponsford saying 'go back into the room dog'.
Alongside the five-year animal ownership disqualification, which cannot be appealed for three years, Ponsford was given a six-week curfew.
He must also complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirements days and was asked to pay £200 costs plus a £90 victim surcharge.
Lulu was signed over into the care of the RSPCA and is currently at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre where she is still undergoing rehabilitation.
Staff say she is a lovely dog who has bonded well with her carers but still needs time to adjust to new situations before being found a loving new home.