Council issues £4,000 Fixed Penalty Notice for breach of animal welfare licence conditions

On 10 September 2024, South Derbyshire District Council issued a Fixed Penalty Notice of £4,000 to a Linton-based dog breeder for breaching licence conditions under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Animal Activities) Regulations 2018.

Following an investigation, it was found that the individual exceeded the number of permitted dog litters under their licence during two consecutive twelve-month periods. Between 2 December 2021 and 1 December 2022, the breeder was authorised to breed up to 5 litters but exceeded this by having 8. Between 2 December 2022 and 1 December 2023, after their licence was varied to allow only 4 litters, the breeder again exceeded the limit by breeding 10 litters.

The breach was confirmed through a combination of evidence, including the breeder’s own records, advertisements on dog-selling websites, Kennel Club registrations, and admissions made during a voluntary interview under caution. Despite previous advice and guidance provided by the Council, the individual failed to comply with the licence conditions.

The penalty was issued by an Authorised Officer of South Derbyshire District Council, which is the enforcement authority under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Animal Activities) Regulations 2018.

Councillor Stephen Taylor, Chair of South Derbyshire District Council’s Environmental and Development Services Committee said: "The Council takes animal welfare seriously, and we will continue to enforce these regulations to ensure the wellbeing of animals and responsible breeding practices.

“Breaching licence conditions not only puts animals at risk but undermines the regulations set out to safeguard them. This penalty demonstrates our commitment to upholding the highest standards in animal welfare."

14 October 2024