Edward Swindells
Causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals *
Sentence
20-week custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, and disqualified from owning, keeping or dealing in dogs for 10 years
As breeding manager at Little Rascals puppy business (also known as Puppies At Home and Pets Ltd) at The Dairies farm, Brant Broughton, failed to provide veterinary care for eye, ear, skin, and dental conditions affecting between five and 11 dogs, failed to address emotional and behavioural needs of 84 dogs, housed 30 dogs on wood shavings causing adverse effects, and failed to provide veterinary care for 52 dogs. Raid on November 13, 2018, by Lincolnshire Police and RSPCA seized 95 of 374 dogs due to dental disease, mites, infections, fear responses, OCD-like compulsions, poor record keeping, cleanliness, bio-security, and lack of socialisation.
Found guilty in absence on June 20 of seven offences including five counts of causing unnecessary suffering to protected animals and two counts of breaching duty to ensure welfare. Ordered to pay £5,000 costs and £115 surcharge. No previous convictions. Judge noted he does not accept responsibility.