CHRISTOPHER MAE FROM SPLOTT SENTENCED FOR ILLEGAL DOG BREEDING AND EARMUTILATION IN CARDIFF

In a recent court case in Cardiff, Christopher Mae, a known dog breeder operating out of the Splott area, was found guilty of multiple offenses related to illegal dog breeding and animal cruelty. Born on January 23, 1989, Mae, who traded under the name Bulletproof Bullies, resided at 66 Habershon Street, Splott, CF24 2DY. His criminal activities included mutilating the ears of puppies, a practice that is strictly prohibited under UK law due to the unnecessary suffering it causes to animals.

Mae pleaded guilty to four separate charges, which led to his sentencing to a 16-week prison term. Additionally, he was ordered to pay over £11,000 in total costs, covering the expenses associated with housing his dogs, fines, and a victim surcharge. The court's decision underscores the seriousness of his violations and the impact on animal welfare.

The court proceedings revealed that Mae intentionally caused pain and suffering to two dogs by cropping their ears, a procedure he carried out for financial gain. It was noted that the value of the dogs increased by between £1,000 and £1,500 after the illegal procedure, which Mae performed to boost their market appeal. The court heard that Mae sold these dogs through a Facebook page, with prices ranging from £1,000 to as much as £5,000 depending on the dog's quality and bone structure.

Further investigation uncovered that Mae was operating as an unlicensed breeder. He was also involved in the illegal importation of a dog named George, who was examined by veterinary authorities and found to have difficulty walking. The origin of George was uncertain, with possibilities including China or Spain, raising concerns about illegal import practices.

Authorities conducted a thorough search of Mae’s residence, leading to the discovery of eight adult dogs and eight puppies. All adult dogs had their ears cropped, consistent with the illegal practice Mae was accused of. Veterinary records indicated that over 60 dogs had been registered under his name, with five females serving as breeding bitches and two stud dogs owned by Mae. He had developed a 'special bloodline' for specific coat colors, highlighting his breeding ambitions.

As part of the seizure, Mae’s dogs were taken into custody. Three adult dogs and two puppies were placed in quarantine because they lacked proper passports, which are required for legal movement and sale within the UK. The investigation also revealed that Mae was selling dogs to individuals described as 'unsavoury,' raising concerns about the nature of his clientele.

Mae’s criminal history is extensive, with 13 convictions spanning from 2004 to 2017. His previous offenses include assault, drug possession, dishonesty, handling stolen goods, and criminal damage, indicating a pattern of unlawful behavior.

In addition to his prison sentence, Mae was disqualified from owning any animals for a period of eight years. He was also prohibited from applying for the revocation of this ban for five years, which will expire in July 2029. The court’s ruling aims to prevent further animal cruelty and illegal breeding activities by Mae in the future.