Individuals fined thousands of pounds for unlicensed dog breeding

Individuals fined thousands of pounds for unlicensed dog breeding

Two individuals have been fined thousands of pounds after illegally breeding dogs without the required animal activity licence.

Following an investigation by Wigan Council’s licensing team, the pair were served animal penalty notices (APNs) of £1,875 each.

Anyone breeding dogs commercially, or carrying out activities that meet the licensing threshold, must hold a valid animal activity licence issued by their local authority.

Councillor Kevin Anderson, portfolio holder for police, crime and civil contingencies, said: "The council takes animal welfare extremely seriously and is committed to ensuring that all animal-related businesses operate legally and to the required standards. 
Licensed breeders play an important role in maintaining animal welfare and providing confidence to prospective owners. Those who choose to operate outside the law gain an unfair advantage and risk compromising the welfare of the animals in their care.”

Licensing requirements are in place to help safeguard animal welfare and ensure that breeders meet appropriate standards for the care, accommodation and management of dogs and puppies. 

Anyone considering buying a puppy is advised to check that the breeder holds the appropriate licence where required and to ensure that the welfare needs of the animals are being properly met.

Coun. Anderson added: “The council is committed to investigating all complaints and intelligence relating to suspected unlicensed dog breeding, and we encourage members of the public to report their concerns to us.
Where breaches are identified, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action, whether through the issuing of a penalty notice or by pursuing a prosecution through the courts."

Information provided by residents can play a vital role in identifying illegal operations and protecting animal welfare. As APNs are not court convictions, those involved cannot be publicly named. More information about licences can be found via the public register.