Cheltenham resident prosecuted for animal welfare offences

A Cheltenham resident has been prosecuted for animal welfare and fraud offences linked to the breeding and sale of French Bulldogs.

At a hearing in 2024, the resident pleaded not guilty to offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and the Fraud Act 2006. The charges related to breeding dogs from their home address without a licence, causing unnecessary suffering under Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and placing false and misleading adverts.

The case went to trial in Cirencester in June 2026, where the resident was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering and fraud.

The prosecution followed reports that the resident was breeding and selling French Bulldogs from their home address without a licence and advertising the dogs for sale on social media. One puppy sold to a member of the public was later found to be seriously unwell. Although the advert stated that both parent dogs had been health tested, the puppy was found to have birth defects and Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).

At a sentencing hearing at Gloucester Crown Court on 24 July 2026, the resident also pleaded guilty to breeding dogs without a licence. They were sentenced for all offences and received:

· an 18-month community order

· mental health treatment requirement

· eight Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) days.

They were also ordered to pay £1,000 towards the council's costs.

The prosecution was brought by the public protection team at Cheltenham Borough Council with the assistance of One Legal and the Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit.

Councillor Jamie Jamieson, cabinet member for safety and communities, said: "This case demonstrates that we will take action where there are serious concerns about animal welfare and where members of the public are misled.

"Anyone who breeds dogs is responsible for ensuring that parent dogs are suitable for breeding and that any relevant genetic testing is carried out.

"If you're looking for a pet, check for the licence number before going any further. Buying from a licensed breeder gives reassurance that the animals have been bred and cared for to appropriate health and welfare standards.”

To find out more about animal activity licences, visit the council’s website.

For media enquiries, contact: communications, telephone 01242 264231, email [email protected].

Notes to editors:

· Dog breeders with an annual turnover of £1,000 or more require a licence

· Buying from a licensed breeder or pet supplier means welfare standards are more likely to be met, and the animals are more likely to be in a good health condition

· Licensed breeders are required to show their licence number on all adverts.

Cheltenham resident prosecuted for animal welfare offences

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