INVESTIGATION LAUNCHED: Concerns raised over treatment of dogs at Welsh rescue charity
Inspectors from Animal Licensing Wales visited the Many Tears Animal Rescue centre in Cefneithin, Carmarthenshire, on Tuesday, March 10.
Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police were also present during the visit.
The inspection follows allegations from several people who previously adopted animals from the rescue, as well as claims from a former employee.
Animal Licensing Wales confirmed that enquiries are now ongoing.
Allegations over puppies and medical records
Some of the allegations relate to claims that puppies brought to Fishguard from Irish breeding farms were then transported to the rescue centre to be rehomed.
Other concerns reportedly include claims that vaccinations were not properly refrigerated, puppies were transported together during journeys to the centre, and that vaccination cards were being produced in large numbers.
Further allegations suggest some dogs may have been rehomed with undisclosed health issues, with questions raised over medical records and the checks carried out before animals were adopted.
It is understood that no animals have been removed from the premises and the rescue continues to operate while the investigation is carried out.
Rescue charity responds
Many Tears Animal Rescue said officials visited the site to collect paperwork and records.
A spokesperson said:
“Representatives of Animal Licensing Wales visited the rescue to retrieve paperwork and records.
“No animals were removed from the premises during the visit and no concerns were raised about the condition or care of the animals on site.”
The charity said it was proud of the standards of care provided by staff.
“We are proud of the exceptional care our kennel staff provide, and our facilities ensure that our animals have enrichment and rehabilitation activities so that they thrive in our care,” the spokesperson said.
“We are working closely with the authorities to ensure they have everything they need to complete the investigation process.”
Transport of animals defended
Responding to concerns about puppies being transported from Ireland, the charity said it regularly rescues animals from breeding establishments to give them a chance of being rehomed.
A spokesperson said:
“Many Tears rescues and rehomes from several large breeding establishments, some of which are in Ireland, to offer ex-breeding dogs the chance to have a loving forever home.
“We also take some unsold puppies who have reached an age where they are no longer desirable to the public.”
The organisation said its vehicles are licensed for transporting animals and that puppies are kept separately from adult dogs during journeys.
Investigation continues
Animal Licensing Wales, which was set up by the Welsh Government to regulate animal activities and tackle illegal breeding, said it could not comment further while the investigation remains ongoing.
Officials are expected to review records and documentation as part of their enquiries.
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