UPDATE: A heart-wrenching case has emerged in Yorkshire as a woman reveals her devastation after paying £650 to rehome her dog, only for it to end up dead among 41 others. The shocking incident involves Oaveed Rahman, 27, who operated a so-called rescue center, Save A Paw, which is now under scrutiny for animal cruelty.
Authorities confirmed that on May 13, 2025, Essex Police raided the facility in Crays Hill, Essex, discovering numerous deceased dogs and others in dire need of veterinary care. Rahman has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to animals and multiple counts of fraud.
During the sentencing at Basildon Crown Court on February 20, 2025, Judge Richard Conley expressed outrage over Rahman’s betrayal of pet owners, stating, “What you did to them was an act of betrayal of epic proportions that has devastated many lives.” The judge emphasized that the animals suffered prolonged mistreatment and neglect, with many dying as a direct result.
Richard Holden, Conservative MP for Basildon and Billericay, has voiced deep concerns regarding the leniency of Rahman’s sentence. He announced on February 25 that he has written to the Attorney General, arguing that the current sentence does not adequately reflect the severity of the crimes committed.
In a statement, Holden remarked, “Dozens of constituents have expressed their dismay at the five-year sentence given the number of animals dead and abused. It is clear that there is potential for a sentence that better reflects both the volume and horrific nature of the offences.”
One victim of this tragedy, Emma Cooper from Harrogate, revealed her heartbreak upon learning that her dog, Lennon, a three-year-old Dalmatian Pointer, was among the deceased. Emma had entrusted Rahman with her pet, believing that he would provide a loving home. “Lennon must have been so scared and in pain—slowly starving to death,” she shared, echoing the feelings of many affected pet owners.
Reports indicate that concerns about animal welfare at Save A Paw had been raised as early as two years before the police intervention. Sandi McEwan and Vanessa Cole, members of the Save A Paw campaign group, have been inundated with inquiries from distressed owners and are advocating for stronger regulations in animal rescue operations. Sandi stated, “We can bring regulation in, but we also need enforcement. The government needs to do more.”
As investigations continue into the tragic fate of the animals, the campaign group is pushing for accountability, revealing that at least 41 dogs have perished under Rahman’s care. The public is demanding justice for these innocent lives lost to cruelty.
Basildon Council has initiated an internal review concerning its previous involvement with Save A Paw and is urging the government to make rehoming centers licensable to prevent future tragedies.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for reform in the animal rescue sector, as calls for justice echo through Yorkshire and beyond. As the investigation unfolds, the emotional toll on families like Emma’s continues to resonate, prompting widespread community outrage and demands for substantial change.
For ongoing updates on this story and other breaking news in Yorkshire, stay connected and informed.
