It’s been confirmed that dogs that were seized from two breeders in Morecambe have now been returned to them.
Earlier this month, Lancaster City Council revoked the licences of two dog breeders after evidence of animal cruelty was found at two sites in Morecambe.
The action was taken under Section 15 of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of activities involving animals) (England) regulations, at addresses in Overton and Hest Bank, following a tip off from a member of the public, on June 7.
In total, 46 dogs were taken into care from the two sites.
In both cases, there was evidence to suggest that the dogs had been left for a considerable period, and their welfare was not being met.
A report stated that both breeders – Jack Reay from Red Rose Kennels and Emily Sutcliffe from Coastal Road – were out of the country and didn’t make adequate provision for the welfare of the animals in their absence.
Now, Lancaster City Council has confirmed to Beyond Radio that the majority of the animals seized have been returned.
In a statement, a spokesperson said: ‘’Responding to concerns raised by a member of the public, earlier this month the council’s animal licencing service visited two sites, one in Overton and another in Hest Bank, and based on the circumstances at the time action was taken to remove a number of adult dogs and puppies to safeguard their welfare.
‘’Some of the dogs were taken for veterinary assessment before being transferred to a local kennels to allow time to carry out an investigation. Based on the findings at the time, the licence to breed dogs was revoked for both operators. There is a right of appeal against the revocation.
“The council has been in discussions with the owners of the dogs, and reviewing legal options available to safeguard the future welfare of the dogs. Working with the owners, and having been satisfied that the facilities on site are now suitable, it has been agreed to return the majority of the dogs.
‘’The council’s animal licencing team will continue to monitor the condition and welfare of the dogs by unannounced visits and has requested confirmation of the intentions for rehoming and long-term care of the animals.”
Beyond Radio contacted both Mr Reay and Ms Sutcliffe, but received no reply from either.
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