Five year pet ban for Herts man who punched rottweiler
RSPCA prosecution leads to ban for Malik Zoubiri
A man from Hertfordshire has been banned from keeping animals for five years after being found guilty of abusing his pet rottweiler.
31 year old Malik Zoubiri of Ludwick Way, Welwyn Garden City, was prosecuted following the review of distressing footage by the RSPCA.
Zoubiri pleaded guilty to two counts of animal welfare offences at Barkingside Magistrates Court on 12th May.
Footage exposed Zoubiri hitting his rottweiler, Dyson, on the ribs after pinning him to the ground.
Dyson could be seen trying to escape, but was unable to do so while pinned.
In another segment of the footage, Zoubiri lifts Dyson by the rear right leg and the collar before dragging him out of the camera's view.
RSPCA officers, alongside law enforcement, attended Zoubiri's home on 11th April 2025, taking Dyson into police care.
A veterinarian examining the footage explained to the court that it depicted significant physical and psychological suffering inflicted on Dyson.
The assessment included evidence of Dyson's fear and reluctance as Zoubiri deliberately used forceful measures against him.
Further details highlighted a pattern of abusive behaviour by Zoubiri, including kicking and throwing objects at Dyson, as well as neglecting to provide food and toilet breaks for several days.
In addition to the five-year ban, Zoubiri received a 12-month community order and was instructed to complete 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.
He was also ordered to pay £500 in costs, alongside a £180 fine, and a victim surcharge of £114.
Mitigating factors were noted, including Zoubiri's mental health issues and his belief that Dyson had mental health problems.
After sentencing, RSPCA Inspector Shahnaz Ahmad said: “Animals feel pain and distress, just like we do, and always deserve to be shown kindness and compassion.”
Due to behavioural concerns, Dyson was later euthanised as he was deemed unsafe for rehoming.