Dog care firm loses licence appeal

A DOG day care business that had its licence revoked after footage and testimony from a former employer has failed in its appeal against the decision.

Mucky Pups Doggy

Day Care, in Rishton, had its licence suspended in January 2020 and revoked following investigation in February.

The owner, Lauren Walker, appealed the decision to revoke the licence but the tribunal has upheld the decision. It was noted that the RSPCA has initiated criminal proceedings against the owner,

Lauren Walker, and her father.

Coun Loraine Cox, Hyndburn council’s cabinet member for housing and regeneration, said: “We are pleased that the Tribunal has found that the Council took the correct action in this case. We are committed to taking appropriate enforcement action on those who do not comply with the required licence conditions to ensure the welfare of animals.”

On August 26, John Walker, 67, of Greenhill, Great Harwood, and his daughter Lauren Walker, 27, of Knowles Street, Rishton, were charged with cruelty offences after the alleged incidents at the Mucky Pups dog day care business on Harwood Road, Rishton.

The pair are jointly charged with being a person responsible for animal welfare who did not take such steps as were reasonable to ensure the welfare of various dogs were met.

John Walker is also charged with causing unnecessary suffering to seven dogs by the use of physical force between September 2019 and November 2019.

Lauren Walker was also charged with being a responsible person failed to prevent unnecessary suffering being caused to seven dogs during the same period.

Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

The case was adjourned until January 6 for a trial which is expected to last two days.