ANTHONY POOLE FROM REDDITCH SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY INVOLVING ZEENA AND OBI

Anthony Roy Poole, born on September 8, 1971, and residing on Northleach Close in Redditch with the postcode B98 8RB, has been found guilty of neglecting and starving two dogs, leading to their suffering and straying. Poole pleaded guilty to two violations of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which brought him into the spotlight of local authorities and animal welfare organizations.

The case first gained attention in November 2014 when Worcestershire Regulatory Services’ dog wardens responded to reports of a stray Rottweiler in the Redditch area. Upon inspection, the dog was found to be severely underweight, in poor health, and suffering from an eye infection. Despite the dog's dire condition, Poole reclaimed the animal after being given advice and assistance on proper canine care. The dog, later identified as Zeena, was in a terrible state due to months of neglect by her owner.

Further incidents occurred in April 2016 when authorities received another report concerning two stray dogs in Redditch. These animals were identified as Zeena, a Rottweiler, and Obi, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Both dogs were found in a deplorable condition, prompting immediate veterinary assessment and treatment. Clinical reports confirmed that both Zeena and Obi were suffering unnecessarily. Obi was suffering from a skin infection and was underweight, while Zeena was experiencing significant hair loss, had eye problems, and a problem with her right leg. Once again, Poole was identified as the owner of these dogs.

During the court proceedings, Poole admitted that he should have taken the dogs to the vet and provided them with proper care. He explained that, being on benefits, he could not afford the veterinary bills, and that the PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) would only take one dog at a time, which he claimed hindered his ability to seek proper treatment for both animals. His neglect resulted in the dogs’ suffering, which was confirmed by veterinary assessments.

Following the case, Worcestershire Regulatory Services’ dog warden Pip Singleton stated that both Zeena and Obi have since been rehomed and are now in good health and happiness. Singleton emphasized that cruelty towards defenseless animals should not be tolerated and highlighted ongoing campaigns to raise awareness about animal cruelty across the county. She expressed hope that increased exposure to such cases would encourage the public to be vigilant and report any signs of animal abuse, helping to prevent unnecessary suffering.

In sentencing, Anthony Poole received a 12-month community order, which includes a 15-week curfew. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £1,400 and a victim surcharge of £85. Additionally, he was banned from owning dogs for a period of 10 years, with the ban set to expire in February 2027.