Risca women admit running unlicensed dog boarding business
Two women from Risca, in Caerphilly County Borough, have admitted running an unlicenced dog boarding business.
Mother and daughter Deborah Jane Edwards of Cwrt Yr Ysgol, aged 64, and Lydia Perkins of Ty Isaf Park Road, aged 34, pleaded guilty when they appeared at Newport Magistrates’ Court.
An investigation by Caerphilly Council’s trading standards team came after information was received regarding the illegal boarding of dogs by the defendants. Officers accompanied by Gwent Police, executed warrants in October 2024 at two premises in Risca suspected of being used for unlicensed dog boarding, and found 28 dogs at a commercial premises being used as a doggy daycare. It was found to be overcrowded and did not meet the standard required of a licenced premises.
The court heard the women had been aware of the legal requirements but continued to trade without a licence between January 2023 and October 2024. During the investigation, evidence found that large numbers of dogs were being boarded by the defendants – sometimes in the region of 20-30 dogs at one time – and consumers were being informed that trading standards and licensing were involved with their business giving the impression of legitimacy.
A conservative estimate of the turnover made by this unlicensed business was calculated to be more than £115,000.
Councillor Philippa Leonard, Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “Unlicensed boarding establishments are not regulated and ultimately take away from legitimately licensed premises. There are no guarantees that the business is able to meet the needs of our pets or have the required knowledge and training in relation to the animals they look after. They often prioritise profit over the safety, health, and welfare of our pets.
“It is hoped that this case will serve as a strong deterrent to anyone operating an animal boarding business without the appropriate licence and sends a strong message that we will not hesitate to seek out and take action against anyone who flouts the law.”
Perkins was given a £200 fine, £80 victim surcharge, and ordered to pay £2,000 costs.
Edwards is due to be sentenced at Newport Crown Court on 27 April 2025.
