A man has been banned from keeping dogs for ten years after he was caught on a doorbell camera hitting his pet with a plastic shoehorn.

Video evidence showed Vasile Baltatu, 23, of Hawkins Close, Harrow, chasing the brindle and white bulldog with a blunt instrument on December 8, 2022 then repeatedly striking him with it.

His pet Nero can be seen cowering under a vehicle and heard yelping in pain.

Baltatu can be heard yelling “I’ll get you tomorrow!” at him.

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) inspector Mike Beaman signed Nero over to the charity when he visited Baltatu’s house on January 5. 

Baltatu pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the dog when he appeared at Willesden Magistrates' Court on August 18 following a successful investigation by the RSPCA. 

Times Series: Nero has found a new home after his previous owner Vasile Baltatu was banned from keeping dogs for 10 yearsNero has found a new home after his previous owner Vasile Baltatu was banned from keeping dogs for 10 years (Image: RSPCA)

On viewing the footage, which is not shown for witness protection, a vet said: “There is nothing in the video to explain or legitimise this use of force against the dog from a veterinary perspective. 

“The translated transcript of the video shows that the owner is using threats and expletives against the dog, and the phrase 'I’ll get you tomorrow!' makes me concerned that this dog would continue to face violence and harm had it stayed with the owner. 

“It is clear from the transcript that the suffering he is inflicting is disproportionate and seems to be driven by malice. 

“The brutality with which the man beats the dog means this is one of the more extreme and unpleasant pieces of evidence I have examined as an RSPCA witness. I have very grave concerns about this man’s ability to care for animals in the future."

As well as the ban, Baltatu was sentenced to an 18-month community order including 20 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR), 150 hours unpaid work, and fined £500 in costs. 

Inspector Beaman said: “The defendant’s behaviour towards his pet was totally unacceptable and disproportionate. Poor Nero couldn’t escape and was clearly terrified. We’re grateful to the person who contacted us with this footage so we could ensure Mr Baltatu was held to account.”

Nero has made a full recovery and has been successfully rehomed by the RSPCA.