TAMMY HART OF CEFN FFOREST BRED DOGS IN SQUALID CONDITIONS AND FACES SEVERE CHARGES

Tammy Ann Hart, also known as Tammy Gunter, a resident of 14 Central Avenue in Cefn Fforest, Blackwood, Caerphilly NP12 3LE, has been found guilty of operating an unlicensed dog breeding enterprise under deplorable conditions. Her actions have drawn significant attention from local authorities and animal welfare organizations alike.

Hart’s involvement in illegal dog breeding came to light after a thorough investigation conducted by Caerphilly Council’s Trading Standards team. The investigation revealed that despite her license to breed dogs having expired in February 2020, she continued to advertise puppies for sale online, deceiving potential buyers into believing she was operating legally. This breach prompted further scrutiny and ultimately led to a detailed search of her property.

On November 9, 2022, officers from Trading Standards, accompanied by a veterinary surgeon and officers from Gwent Police, executed a search warrant at Hart’s residence. The scene they uncovered was distressing: a total of 29 dogs living in extremely poor conditions. The animals were kept in overcrowded outdoor kennels that were poorly lit and lacked adequate weather protection. The environment was stark and lacked any form of sensory stimulation, with no soft bedding or comfortable resting areas for the dogs. The kennels’ poor ventilation created a hazardous atmosphere, with the risk of ammonia build-up from the animals’ waste.

Among the animals seized was a nine-week-old male Shih Tzu puppy. The veterinary assessment was alarming; the puppy was severely underweight, with pale gums and a distended abdomen, indicating significant suffering. The vet confirmed that the puppy had endured unnecessary pain and distress, a clear violation of Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Further inquiries uncovered that over a 16-month period, from May 2021 to September 2022, Hart had bred at least 26 litters of various breeds. The puppies were marketed for sale through online platforms, often without any indication that Hart was a licensed breeder. It is estimated that her illicit activities generated profits exceeding £86,000, highlighting the scale of her operation.

Animal welfare organizations, including Hope Rescue, expressed their support for the authorities’ efforts. Sara Rosser, Head of Operations at Hope Rescue, stated, “We were pleased once again to be able to support the excellent work of Caerphilly council on this case. Whilst it can be challenging to take in a large number of dogs with high care needs at one time, we are delighted to say that all the dogs have now been adopted and have gone on to live happy and fulfilled lives.”

In addition to criminal charges, Hart has been disqualified from dealing with all animals for a period of seven years. A Proceeds of Crime investigation is also underway, which will determine the financial costs associated with her illegal activities. The case underscores the importance of strict regulation and enforcement in the animal breeding industry to prevent cruelty and protect animal welfare.