Carlisle man gets five-year ban after kicking French bulldog

A man from Carlisle has been handed a five-year ban on keeping animals after being convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to a French bulldog.

The incident, which was captured on doorbell camera footage, showed the man kicking the dog with significant force, causing it to be lifted into the air before landing on the ground. The footage was later used as key evidence in court proceedings.

The court heard that the defendant had been walking with the dog—an animal that did not belong to him—before he became aggressive. He was seen shouting at the dog and then kicking and dragging it along the pavement.

Prosecutors described the act as violent and distressing, highlighting the level of force used against the animal. The incident was reported to authorities, and police quickly took action after reviewing the footage.

During the hearing, the defendant admitted the offence of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. The court was also told he had a history of previous convictions, which were taken into account during sentencing.

As part of the sentence, the man received a suspended prison term, along with strict conditions including a curfew and payment of court costs. Most notably, he was disqualified from owning or keeping animals for five years, reflecting the seriousness of the offence.

The case has drawn attention to the importance of animal welfare and the legal consequences of cruelty, with authorities emphasising that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

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