Twelve puppies have been rescued from a 'filthy' breeding operation raided by police and the council. One of the dogs, who was in pain, was being kept in a cage so small they couldn't even turn or stand up freely in their crate.
The unlicensed dog-breeding operation had several dogs found in appalling conditions, with all but one locked in very small crates or pens. None of the pups had access to food or water.
They were kept in crates with old blankets as bedding, which were filthy and covered in urine and faeces. The dogs were rescued after a warrant was executed at an address in Cannock, Staffs, on Tuesday, June 6.
It came after concerns had been raised over illegal dog breeding and animal welfare. Seven adult dogs and five puppies - all from the same litter - have now been taken away from the property, reports BirminghamLive.
The puppies, which were French Bulldogs, were without their mother and had no access to food or water - crucial to puppies as their energy requirements are significantly higher during growth. Staffordshire Police dog handlers, police officers, officers from Cannock Council's environmental health, an RSPCA officer, a locksmith, and a dog warden all attended.
Cannock Council said officers had been due to attend court this morning, (Tuesday, June 14), to apply for an order under the Animal Welfare Act which would force the owner to legally hand over possession of the dogs to the council. However, at around 10.30pm last night, the dogs were voluntarily handed over by the owners, meaning the process of rehoming can immediately start.
Had the matter gone to court, the council would have needed to wait until the expiry of an appeal period before rehoming, which would not be in the animals’ best interests.
A council spokesperson said: "Cannock Chase Council takes animal welfare in the district very seriously and will take all steps necessary to ensure pet animals are free from pain and suffering. The council would like to remind everyone when purchasing dogs to ensure they use reputable breeders who are licensed by their local authority as this ensures animal welfare standards are being met.
"In continuing to buy dogs or puppies from unlicensed breeders we only add to the problem and often cause great distress and suffering to the animals concerned."
