ANDREW COOK OF WATERLOOVILLE SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACK ON PUPPY IN WATERLOOVILLE

Andrew Cook, a self-employed bricklayer residing on Grebe Close in Waterlooville, was convicted in 2019 for a heinous act of animal cruelty that shocked the local community. The incident involved the severe assault of a six-month-old Staffy puppy named Bronson, belonging to Cook's former partner, Paige Bowden. The attack took place after Cook returned home and discovered that the puppy had soiled itself inside the house.

In a fit of uncontrollable rage, Cook kicked Bronson with such force that the puppy sustained multiple grave injuries. The assault resulted in a fractured skull and hip, internal bleeding, a brain injury, and at least two broken bones. The puppy also suffered severe bruising around his left eye and injuries inside his mouth. Witnesses and veterinary reports described the injuries as catastrophic, with the total treatment costs reaching approximately £5,000. Bronson was examined and treated at several veterinary clinics, including Vets 4 Pets, Sanctuary Vets, and the RSPCA-owned Stubbington Ark in Fareham.

According to court proceedings, Cook's temper flared when he saw the mess inside the house. When Paige Bowden returned and questioned him about Bronson’s injuries, Cook claimed that the puppy was 'just sulking' after being hurt by another dog during a walk. Prosecutor Sarah Huck from the RSPCA detailed that Cook's anger escalated further, and he threatened to stamp on Bronson’s head to 'finish him off so there was no vets’ bills to pay.'

Following the attack, Cook's actions led to widespread condemnation. The court heard that he later expressed remorse, with his lawyer Howard Barrington-Clark arguing that Cook 'couldn’t cope' upon seeing the mess and that he lost control, kicking the puppy as if it were an inanimate object like a door. Barrington-Clark added that Cook’s previous criminal record was minor and did not include similar incidents of violence or cruelty.

After the incident, Bronson was placed back in the care of Paige Bowden, who subsequently ended her relationship with Cook, the father of her young son. The case drew attention from animal welfare groups, with RSPCA inspector Charlotte Coggins stating that 'justice has been done' but emphasizing that the case was among the 'worst the group has seen in a long time.' She described the injuries as 'absolutely awful' but expressed relief that Bronson was now recovering well and back with his owner, where he would receive the love and care he needed.

In sentencing, Andrew Cook received a 12-week prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, participate in a rehabilitation program consisting of 21 sessions aimed at reducing violent behavior, and undertake 20 hours of additional activities. Furthermore, Cook was disqualified from keeping animals for life and was ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £515. The court’s decision reflected the seriousness of the crime and underscored the importance of animal protection laws in the region.