A HOYLAND woman has been fined thousands of pounds for breeding three litters of puppies without a licence, following an investigation by the council’s Animal Health team.

Lynn Everett, 65, of Eaden Crescent, pled guilty to breeding the puppies within a one-year period without a licence - for the dogs she had bred between August and November 2019.

Everett was fined £3,000, ordered to pay costs of £938 and a victims surcharge of £181 - totalling £4,119.

This prosecution follows a previous conviction in 2017 where Everett was fined more than £4,000.

Julia Burrows, director of public health, said: “During the pandemic we have seen a rise in the number of unlicensed dog breeders.

“Anyone operating a business selling puppies for profit, when this involves the sale of more than two litters of puppies in any 12-month period, must hold a licence with us.

“These licences are important to make sure dog welfare standards are met.

“This prosecution sends a clear message that any breeders attempting to sell puppies without a licence will face legal action.”