Animal charities have condemned a man who ran a fake animal charity where 41 dead dogs were found, with another 21 in a dire condition.
Oaveed Rahman was jailed for five years after pretending to run a rehoming charity called Save A Paw and causing suffering to pets in his care.
Rahman set up a Facebook page for his Essex-based fictitious charity and conned people into handing over their dogs for payment, only to keep them in squalor.
Essex Police said that the dogs were housed in “inhumane and appalling conditions” after Rahman was sentenced at Basildon Crown Court last Friday.
Rahman admitted 11 counts of fraud by false representation and one count of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, which relates to 22 in his care.
Police, who worked alongside the RSPCA, have found the remains of 41 dogs since launching their investigation in May last year.
Rahman, who also admitted possession of a banned dog breed, relating to an XL Bully, was given a lifetime ban from owning animals.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “This has been an extremely upsetting case for everyone involved, particularly those who entrusted dogs into the care of Save A Paw.
“We are […] calling for action to protect many thousands of animals in the future by introducing regulation of animal rescues and sanctuaries.”
Charities step in after ‘inhuman’ treatment of pets
The Dogs Trust and National Animal Welfare Trust have worked with the RSPCA to rehome some of the dogs.
Adam Levy, Dogs Trust head of rehoming operations, said: “The decision to hand over a dog for rehoming is never taken lightly, and owners placed their trust in Save a Paw to act in the best interests of their pets.
“That trust was broken in the most appalling way, with devastating consequences.
“This case highlights the urgent need for stronger regulation of rehoming organisations, including licensing and regular inspections.”
Save A Paw’s Facebook page, posing as a “rescue and rehabilitation service”, is still active today and has over 5,000 followers.
Photos and videos show dogs kept in poor conditions while the admin continually asks followers for donations.
Essex Police also worked alongside Basildon council which condemned the “cruelty” of Rahman’s actions.
A spokesperson for the Fundraising Regulator said it has not been involved in the investigation but urged people to check whether an organisation is listed on the register of charities or has a fundraising badge before engaging.
