CIRCUS SHOWMAN DRAGS HYSTERICAL DOG BEHIND CAR DURING DRUNKEN RAGE
Wellard, described as a showman who works with circuses, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to an animal as well as two counts of assault by beating and one of common assault.The incident involving the dog – a lurcher called Ruby – took place on May 12, 2025.
Following an argument with his partner, Wellard left in his car taking Ruby and a second dog with him.
He stopped off at a pub for drinks before meeting up with a farmer where he consumed homemade 85% alcohol.
He drank some in coffee before driving home.
On his arrival, his partner and a teenage boy entered the vehicle and a further argument ensued.
Wellard then dragged the pair out of the vehicle and “reversed at speed” as the youth was attempting to remove the dogs.
One dog was freed but Ruby’s lead was caught in the car door and she was dragged behind the vehicle as Wellard drove off.
He stopped, and Ruby ran off into a nearby woodlands.
The “hysterical” dog was eventually found.
She taken to vets for treatment, and has since made a recovery.
Wellard’s partner said through a victim impact statement read out in court that the incident has resulted in her having to go to therapy.
She added that she “lives in fear” when Wellard decides to drink.
In mitigation, Kate D’Aloia told the court that Wellard “suffers from an allergic reaction” when he drinks alcohol and has therefore stopped.
She added that her client is an “animal lover” who has lots of pets.
“This was an accident – he loves animals and they are like family to him,” Ms D’Aloia said.
“He did not realise that the lead was trapped in the car door.”
