With rapidly increasing demand for puppies during lockdown, 28-year-old Kristina Barton noticed a gap in the market.
She decided to apply for a breeding license as quickly as possible.
Determined to succeed
Kristina already managed an equestrian business in west Wales, but her breeding license was immediately rejected.
Undeterred, she decided she would carry on with her puppy plan anyway, installing the infrastructure to create a lucrative business.
The investigation
Kristina's business took off immediately, much to the dismay of her surrounding neighbours.
Complaints quickly followed, with reports of barking and free-roaming dogs left to wander. This lead to an investigation by the Town Hall of Carmarthenshire in 2021.
They were shocked to discover 9 litters of puppies for sale, many of which had already been advertised online.
Despite repeated warnings, the situation continued to escalate. With increasing numbers of complaints from the neighbours, it was clear further action was urgently needed. Finally, in 2022, police were called to the property, and the breeder was charged with three counts under the Animal Welfare Act.
Barton was fined £30,000 for the illegal breeding of dogs, holding her to account for proceeding against the law.
