TOMOS DAVIES' ILLEGAL PUPPY FARM IN TALOG: CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNCIL INVESTIGATION REVEALS UNLICENSED BREEDING OPERATIONS

In a significant crackdown on illegal puppy breeding, Tomos Davies, a dairy farmer from Rhydygors Farm in Talog, Carmarthen, has been found guilty of operating an unlicensed puppy farm and selling puppies through various online platforms. The investigation, carried out by Carmarthenshire Council, uncovered that Davies was actively advertising puppies on popular websites such as Pets4homes, Gumtree, and Freeads, utilizing a total of nine different accounts. Some of these accounts were not registered under his name, indicating an attempt to conceal his activities.

Authorities launched the inquiry in October 2022 after receiving multiple reports that Davies was breeding and selling litters of puppies without holding the necessary licensing. Despite these reports, the council’s investigation revealed that Davies had previously contacted the local authority in January of the same year, seeking information about obtaining a dog breeding license. He was provided with a detailed information pack outlining the legal requirements and steps needed to acquire such a license. However, despite this, Davies never submitted an application for licensing.

Further investigations in February 2023 involved requests made under the Data Protection Act to various online advertising platforms. These requests uncovered that Davies was managing nine separate advertising accounts across websites including Preloved, Pets4homes, Kennel Club, Gumtree, and Freead. Of these, five accounts were registered in Davies’ own name, while four were registered to a third party, suggesting an attempt to evade detection.

Records from these advertising accounts showed that between April 2021 and February 2023, Davies listed a total of 11 litters of puppies for sale. The breeds included Labradoodles, French Bulldogs, Labradors, Beagles, and Dobermans, indicating a diverse range of popular and sought-after breeds. The sale of these puppies was conducted without the appropriate licensing, which is a breach of the Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations.

Tomos Davies ultimately pleaded guilty to the offence. During sentencing, he received a conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £1,000 towards the costs of his prosecution. His wife, Elin Davies, was present during the proceedings but was not prosecuted in connection with the case.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by local authorities to clamp down on illegal puppy farms and ensure that breeders adhere to animal welfare laws. The authorities emphasize the importance of licensing and proper regulation to prevent the suffering of animals and to protect consumers from unscrupulous breeders.