On 30 June 2023 at Stevenage Magistrates’ Court, a resident from the Borough of Broxbourne was successfully prosecuted under section 13(6) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006
The prosecution came as a result of illegal breeding, advertising and sale of puppies. Prior to committing the offence, the offender, who owned male and female dogs, had received visits from the RSPCA and Broxbourne Council’s Environmental Health Officers who had pre-warned that if she intended to breed her dogs to sell puppies, she would have to register her business under the remit of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) Regulations 2018 and obtain a license to permit legal trading.
An investigation later carried out by Council Officers revealed that the offender’s female dog had in fact had a litter of nine puppies which were found to be up for sale without a license raking in an estimated profit of £11,100.
At the prosecution hearing, the accused resident pleaded guilty and was given 18 months conditional discharge which will see the case reopen for her to be fined if further offences are committed within this time period.
The offender was also ordered to pay the Council’s legal costs and a witness surcharge.
The prosecution not only brought to light the effective and commendable work carried out by the Council’s Environmental Health team but is also serving as a reminder of the consequences for those who are illegally engaging in unlicensed business activities.
To find out more about business and licensing visit www.broxbourne.gov.uk/business or call 01992 785555.