PLYMPTON WOMAN SOLD PUPPIES ILLEGALLY AND OPERATED UNLICENSED BREEDING BUSINESS
Mother of one, Barton, admitted to running an unlicensed dog breeding operation.Her prosecution followed a collaborative investigation by the RSPCA and Plymouth City Council into her business, ‘Pretty Frenchies’.
The council first became aware of her activities in October 2023 after a tip-off from a member of the public.
They reached out to Barton regarding allegations of unlicensed dog breeding, but she did not respond.
Subsequently, the RSPCA received reports concerning the poor health of puppies she was breeding, prompting a joint probe.
Barton had been actively promoting litters for sale, and inquiries revealed that buyers reported complex arrangements where dogs were handed over to third parties to care for temporarily.
Despite this, Barton maintained control over breeding decisions and profited from the sales.
In June 2025, authorities obtained a warrant to inspect her premises, discovering several dogs confined in cages, including a heavily pregnant female in a dirty whelping area, along with other dogs wandering the site.
Barton was questioned under caution but chose to remain silent.
She was issued a penalty for unlicensed dog breeding, initially cooperating, but she failed to pay and was subsequently summoned to court.
Plymouth City Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Jemima Laing, commented: “This is a positive outcome for our licensing team.
The illegal dog breeding operation was organized, deliberate, and driven by profit, operating for about two and a half years.
The offender prioritized money over animal welfare and circumvented regulations meant to safeguard animals.
I’m pleased they will no longer be able to continue.” As a result, Barton was sentenced to ten days of rehabilitation activities, fined £80, and ordered to pay £3,911 in costs.
She is also banned from selling dogs commercially for ten years, with the restriction ending in May 2036.
