Four dog breeders based in Brant Broughton, near Lincoln, have been given suspended prison sentences and a ten-year prohibition on owning dogs following a joint operation by the police and the RSPCA. The Puppies at Home premises, formerly identified as Little Rascals, was scrutinised following tips from previous employees. The accused, Edward Swindells, Bridgett Dickens, Peter Dickens, and Amy Allen, were convicted of failing to ensure the animals’ wellbeing under their supervision. According to the RSPCA, dogs were found “quivering and hiding” in fear, with 19 veterinarians required to examine the 374 dogs found on the premises during the November 2018 raid. Swindells was given a suspended 20-week prison sentence and a fine of £5,000, with the remaining three breeders also receiving suspended sentences and financial penalties. The RSPCA praised the courage exhibited by former employees who brought the mistreatment to light, thereby guaranteeing the safe relocation of the animals.
This article has been modified from its original version first reported by www.bbc.com.
