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 Based on the findings at the time, the licence to breed dogs was revoked for both operators.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.
Council considers £2m bid to bring vacant Morecambe building back to life
Woman dies after falling from motorway bridge near Lancaster
Incredible find 'reunites' Morecambe football hero with winner's medal 50 years after Wembley win
Morecambe rock band to headline tribute concert for Hairy Bikers star
Lancaster nurse whose husband was captured by Taliban hopes to inspire students
Wray Scarecrow Festival starts this weekend
Beacon lighting and wartime songs in Morecambe to mark 80th anniversary of D-Day
INTERVIEW: Eden Project Morecambe chief expects full funding package by summer and spade in ground by autumn/winter
Morecambe's longest-running music festival under threat in row over council grant
British Empire Medal to be presented to Morecambe band stalwart in prestigious Lancaster Castle ceremony
Lancaster and Morecambe events open young ears to music of the jukebox generation
Popular Morecambe fabric and gift shop returns as pop-up on Prom
Event announced for residents to help create exhibits for new £100m Eden Project Morecambe
Police announce that body found on beach is missing man from Morecambe
Burst pipe leaves Carnforth and Bolton-le-Sands residents without water and forces school to close
Thousands more flock to Morecambe’s Baylight Festival in 2024
Lancaster surgeon dressed as 'poo emoji' among our London Marathon heroes
VIDEO: Delight at rare otter sighting near Lancaster village marina
PHOTOS: March and rally calling for Gaza ceasefire held in Lancaster city centre
Crews put out house fire in Heysham
