A man who was captured on CCTV violently abusing his dog has been banned indefinitely from owning animals.

Reece Doherty (DOB: 14.02.1998), of Turkey Street, Enfield, pleaded guilty to an animal welfare offence at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court on 4 July, following an investigation and prosecution by the RSPCA. The case was brought after disturbing footage was shared with the animal welfare charity.
On 26 September 2024, Doherty was seen on CCTV in a communal corridor approaching his Central Asian Shepherd dog, Cora, who was displaying a clearly submissive posture. He then picks her up by her front legs and throws her down the corridor, where she lands on a mat near the front door. He is then seen kicking her as she tries to get up.
A second camera shows Cora moving away, but Doherty follows with a lit cigarette in hand. He then straddles the dog and reaches down to her shoulder, where a scar consistent with a cigarette burn was later found.
An expert veterinary witness who reviewed the footage said: “It is clear from the videos that Cora was subjected to a prolonged and serious physical attack which will have without doubt caused her considerable pain.

“Whilst I note that no fractures resulted from the attack, the level of force and brutality used in the attack will have resulted in severe bruising and soft tissue injury.

“Cora will have suffered mentally from fear and distress – as demonstrated by the extreme submissive behaviour exhibited by her throughout the CCTV footage.”

The court was asked to consider whether Doherty deliberately stubbed out his cigarette on Cora’s shoulder, where the scar was discovered.

In mitigation, it was said Doherty was suffering from mental illness and not fully aware of his actions.

In addition to the indefinite disqualification from owning animals, he was ordered to pay £280 in costs.

RSPCA Inspector Hannah Nixon, who led the investigation, said: “The footage shows what Cora experienced. No animal deserves to be thrown, kicked or burnt. We’d plead to all pet owners to always show animals kindness and to reach out for help and support if they are struggling with training or behavioural issues they feel need to be addressed. It’s never acceptable to lose your temper and take it out on a defenceless animal. They feel pain.”

Despite her ordeal, Cora is now recovering well and is available for rehoming at RSPCA Cornwall. She is a one-year-old Central Asian Shepherd looking for a larger home with a secure garden.

“She has so much love to give, and we hope she finds the special home she deserves,” added Inspector Nixon.