A woman who kept dogs in ‘dangerous and filthy’ conditions at her un-licensed boarding business has been hauled before the courts and fined.
Anna Charnley, 54, made almost £66,000 from pet owners who sent at least 20 dogs a day to her filthy doggy daycare farm.
Charnley claimed that her ‘Go Active Dog Club’ was providing “dog agility exercise”, Preston Magistrates’ Court heard.
But two owners complained to Preston City Council after their dogs were allegedly left injured at the centre and officers said Charnley needed a £172-a-year-licence for the business.
Pictures released by the local authority of the site at Boyes Farm, Preston, Lancs., show dirty cages and chewed sofas.
Jorge Carrera, prosecuting on behalf of Preston City Council, said: “The perimeter was found to be filthy and certain areas found to be dangerous, including corrugated panelling and sharp pointed wires.”
He added: “The conditions were such that if she had applied for a licence she would not have been granted one.
“These unlawful activities have a detrimental effect on properly licensed premises.”
Charnley, of Preston, Lancs., admitted keeping an animal boarding establishment without a licence.
Rob Kellock, defending, said the defendant was of “utmost good character”.
The bench imposed a £165 fine, £30 surcharge and £1,729.44 in court costs.
Preston City Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulation, Cllr Peter Moss, said: “This case sends out a clear message that the council will not tolerate unlicensed businesses that potentially put animal welfare at risk.
“We had no option other than to instigate prosecution proceedings.
“Licences and inspections are important measures to ensure that animals are kept in safe and appropriate conditions – safe from the risk of infection or other harm.”
