More than 50 animals seized from a South Staffordshire rescue centre following concerns for welfare
Dozens of animals have been surrendered from a rescue centre following a warrant carried out by South Staffordshire Council.
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Police, RSPCA, council members, trained dog handlers and veterinary specialists were spotted at C.A.A.R.S rescue centre in Essington near Wolverhampton on Tuesday at around midday.
The action was prompted by multiple complaints alleging potential illegal activities relating to animal welfare and licensing concerns.
Members of the public also believed the dogs and cats were living in squalid conditions at the centre.
During the planned warrant, members of the council's Environmental Health Team took 34 dogs, 19 puppies, one cat, five kittens and five tortoises and are working to find accommodation for them.
Investigations are ongoing
Councillor Rita Heseltine of South Staffordshire Council said: "We take reports of animal welfare concerns very seriously. I want to thank members of the public for coming forward with their concerns. We are committed to investigating issues related to licensing and animal welfare fully and taking action where necessary to protect animals."
A spokesperson for the RSPCA added: "This operation demonstrates the importance of partnership working. We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering and urge anyone with concerns about the welfare of an animal to report them to the relevant authorities.”
Sergeant Craig Beardsley, from Staffordshire Police’s new County Proactive and Rural Crimeteam, said: “We’re determined to continue working with our local partners in Staffordshire to tackle the issues affecting rural communities the most. Only by working together can we continue to take action against those causing alarm and distress amongst local residents and businesses in our county.”
The Council and its partners remind the public that they can report concerns about animal welfare anonymously through appropriate channels.
South Staffordshire Police’s new Rural Crime Team, which launched last month, is continuing to work alongside partners and specialist teams to tackle the issues affecting rural communities the most.
To report a crime, call 101 or use Live Chat on the South Staffordshire Police’s website. Only call 999 if it’s an emergency. If you want to report a crime anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
