Couple prosecuted after pleading guilty to illegal dog sales in Rushden

A couple have been prosecuted after pleading guilty to selling dogs without a licence in Rushden.

Husband and wife Jackson and Wendy Dass have been sentenced to a disqualification order for three years from dealing in dogs (both selling and breeding), and transporting / arranging for the transportation of dogs, to commence immediately.

They were given a fine of £369 and £646 respectively.

The defendants were also ordered to pay £1,000 each as a contribution to the prosecution’s costs, plus £36 and £64 victim surcharge.

Officers from North Northamptonshire Council were made aware of the illegal activity in December 2018 and received further information in April 2019.

A full and thorough investigation resulted in charges being laid, but unfortunately court dates were postponed several times due to the pandemic before the successful prosecution was brought on March 30 at Wellingborough Magistrates Court.

Emma Matthews, licensing compliance officer for North Northamptonshire Council, said: “We are determined that the local area will not be used for illegal activities around dog breeding and as a qualified inspector, it is my responsibility to ensure that people who require a licence obtain one, those that have a licence comply with their licence conditions and those who don’t engage are dealt with appropriately.

“This is the second case which I have worked on in recent years that has been brought to the courts, and the second which has resulted in a conviction.

"The new legislation in October 2018 made it very clear that commercial breeding of dogs requires a licence and that animal welfare will be paramount.

"We will continue to work hard to prevent illegal dog sales, whilst also protecting animals in the area.”

When buying a puppy, it is advised that you consider the following:

Do…

- Ask to see mum and puppy together

- Visit your new puppy more than once

- Get all your puppy’s paperwork before going home, including vaccinations, and ensure your puppy is microchipped

- Walk away if you are at all unsure

- Report suspicious sellers or breeders

- Take your puppy to your own vet for a health check as soon as possible

Don’t…

- Meet anywhere that isn’t the puppy’s home

- Buy a puppy from anyone who can supply various breeds on demand

- Buy a puppy that looks too young / small or underweight

- Feel pressured to buy a puppy

- Buy a puppy that you suspect has been illegally imported

If you are concerned about illegal puppy sales, you can speak to a member of the North Northamptonshire Council Environmental Service Animal Licensing team on 0300 1263000.

North Northamptonshire Council has taken over all responsibilities for the areas formally held by Corby Council, East Northamptonshire Council, Kettering Council and Wellingborough Council and this case was brought forward by ENC.

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