Unlicensed breeder found guilty of keeping dogs in appalling conditions ordered to pay over £16,000 in fines

On Friday 26^th July, Andrew Watts of Milton Damerel pleaded guilty to thirteen offences of breeding dogs without a license at Barnstaple Magistrates Court, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Torridge Officers found that the dogs were kept in dreadful conditions, with many suffering from health issues. Mr. Watts has been ordered to pay over £16,000 in fines.

In August 2023, the Torridge Licensing Team received a complaint regarding an online advertisement for Hungarian Vizsla puppies. The complainant had concerns about the welfare of the underweight puppies and the breeder, prompting immediate investigations.

In October 2023, Torridge Licensing Officers coordinated a joint operation with the Police, RSPCA, and a veterinary surgeon to carry out a search warrant at Mr Watt's property. Upon arrival, the team discovered eighteen dogs and there were grave concerns about their well-being. Among the findings were underweight Hungarian Vizsla puppies and their mother living in unsanitary conditions. The stench was unbearable with the mother suffering from severe diarrhoea. The mother and her puppies were promptly handed over to the council and taken away. Additionally, the team also found a heavily pregnant Cocker Spaniel in poor health at the same location.

The investigation uncovered deplorable conditions in the property's kennels with officers having to take frequent breaks outside due to the overpowering stench of urine and faeces. The dogs were living in dark, damp and filthy surroundings, with many sustaining burns to their paws from prolonged exposure to urine. Buyers were unaware of these issues. Inside the house, a well-maintained room was arranged for buyers to interact with the puppies, complete with a designated play area. Some mother dogs had been bred twice a year.

Numerous buyers mentioned that the puppies they bought had health issues, such as upset stomachs and worms. Some of the dogs needed months of care and rehabilitation before they could be placed in new homes. The dogs were handed over to animal rescue organisations that assisted with collecting, transporting and finding new homes. It was uncovered that three of the mother dogs were pregnant when they were taken in. Despite this unexpected situation, all the dogs received the care and veterinary attention they needed. Thanks to The Dogs Trust, RSPCA and Margaret Green Animal Rescue.

The council is thrilled to share that all the mothers and their puppies, who were born in the care of animal charities, have been adopted into loving homes. We are especially happy for Red and her sweet puppies, who melted the hearts of many families eagerly waiting to welcome them into their homes.

Councillor Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health & Community Safety, said;

"It's truly heartbreaking to witness animals being kept in such poor conditions. I'm very proud of the Torridge Officers who worked brilliantly with other organisations to stop this illegal act. The case shines a light on the importance of choosing puppies from licensed breeders who adhere to the numerous requirements under The Animal Welfare Act 2006. Torridge Officers are committed to investigating unlicensed animal activities and taking cases to court when necessary. If you're considering giving a home to a dog or puppy, please think about reaching out to rescue centres - there are so many dogs in need. If you are interested in buying a puppy from a licensed breeder, please be sure to visit the Torridge website beforehand at www.torridge.gov.uk/publicregister."

Aug 24