JONATHAN OLDHAM'S HORRIFIC CRUELTY IN WEAVERHAM: TEN-YEAR DOG BAN

A disturbing case of animal cruelty has emerged from Weaverham, Northwich, involving 23-year-old Jonathan Oldham. The incident was captured on a neighbor’s doorbell camera, revealing Oldham physically abusing a young puppy named Zena. The footage depicts Oldham gripping the 12-week-old Presa Canario by the scruff of her neck before forcefully throwing her down a corridor, eliciting a loud yelp from the frightened animal.

Authorities confirmed that the incident took place inside a flat in Weaverham. The RSPCA, upon reviewing the footage, noted that the puppy’s cries expressed clear signs of fear and distress, indicating that Oldham’s handling was excessively harsh and potentially painful. The vet’s report further supported this, describing Zena’s reactions as indicative of suffering and discomfort caused by her owner’s treatment.

Oldham subsequently admitted to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. His actions were characterized as neglectful, involving the use of measures that could cause pain and fear to the animal. During his sentencing on April 23 at Chester Magistrates Court, Oldham was fined £150, ordered to pay £1,000 in legal costs, and was subjected to a victim surcharge of £64. The court’s decision reflected the seriousness of the cruelty inflicted upon Zena.

In a fortunate turn of events, a friend of Oldham’s partner managed to rescue Zena from the flat before the RSPCA could intervene. Despite this rescue, the puppy was later taken to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. The RSPCA revealed that, when observed through a window, Zena appeared ‘rather sombre and lifeless,’ although she showed no immediate visible injuries. This suggested that the emotional and psychological impact of her treatment was significant.

RSPCA officers confirmed that the man seen in the footage bore a strong resemblance to Oldham, based on descriptions and tattoos. Scarlet Sanderson, an RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer, expressed her outrage, stating, ‘The cries from this poor puppy, which were caught on the video, were absolutely heartbreaking. The vet who examined the footage said they reflected real fear and distress of the kind no animal should have to endure. It is totally inexcusable to treat a dog in this way. But what the case also shows is that when members of the public report abuse and neglect of pets, supported by camera footage, the RSPCA will investigate thoroughly and bring the guilty to justice.’

As part of his punishment, Oldham was handed a ten-year ban from keeping dogs, a measure designed to prevent him from harming animals in the future. This case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the role of technology in safeguarding animal welfare, sending a clear message that cruelty will be met with strict legal consequences.