Woman convicted for illegally breeding dogs

Kirsty Conway pleaded guilty to breeding dogs without a licence at North Staffordshire Justice Centre

A woman from Stoke-on-Trent has pleaded guilty to illegally breeding dogs.

Kirsty Conway, of Carlton Avenue, Tunstall, was given a conditional discharge for 24 months and ordered to pay £1,000 in costs.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council said it had received numerous complaints about the issue, dating back approximately four years.

Ms Conway had previously been advised she needed a licence, the council said.

The authority added that she had been advertising puppies for sale via social media, charging upwards of £2,000 for them.

The authority said unlicensed breeders have a negative impact on legitimate businesses.

'Maintaining public trust'

It said unlicensed breeders go unmonitored, which means welfare standards are not always maintained.

The council advised members of the public to buy puppies only from licensed breeders, and said they should ask to see the licence.

Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for enforcement said: “This case serves as a reminder that adherence to regulations is essential for safeguarding the well-being of animals and maintaining public trust.

“Therefore, the city council is committed to taking action against unlicensed commercial dog breeders to protect animal welfare and consumers and honest breeders.”