SOMERSET MAN JAILED FOR ABUSE OF DOGS
Hood, originally from Minehead and the son of notorious pet hoarders James and Nicola Hood, pleaded guilty to multiple animal welfare offences in relation to two dogs following an investigation by the RSPCA.The offences involved two dogs named Peter and Nova, who were subjected to distressing treatment at Hood's hands.
Concerns were first raised about a boxer named Peter, who was reportedly dragged by the collar, causing him to urinate out of fear.
A veterinarian analyzed noise recordings from Hood’s home, stating: “While no direct physical abuse was seen, crashing noises, prolonged banging, and yelping were clearly heard multiple times per week, including alarm barks from Peter and fear urination, which are consistent with a distressed and potentially mishandled animal.
Such treatment can result in bruising, soft tissue damage, or fear-based behavioural disorders, particularly if the crate is kicked or struck while the dog is inside.” Further complaints involved Hood’s treatment of a husky-type dog named Nova.
The most serious incident involved Hood being witnessed slapping and punching Nova, causing the dog to yelp and cower in fear.
Additional evidence led to Nova being seized by the RSPCA.
Hood, a scaffolder who also DJs under the name DJ Hood, said he had stopped working in his trade after the birth of his second child and stated he took his frustrations out on the dog due to financial pressures.
He expressed remorse and accepted full responsibility.
RSPCA inspector Jo Daniel commented: “Hood denied any wrongdoing throughout the investigation so I am pleased that he has now taken responsibility for his behaviour.
"Intentionally causing an animal to be fearful of you through aggressive actions is wholly unacceptable and causing suffering to an animal by deliberately punching and slapping is a criminal offence.
We are committed to bringing people who treat their animals this way to justice and preventing them from having responsibility for animals in the future.” During court proceedings, Hood was sentenced to 200 hours of unpaid work, 25 days of ‘rehab’, ordered to pay £400 in costs, and a £114 victim surcharge.
He is also banned from keeping animals for seven years, a ban which he cannot appeal for five years (until April 2033).
