**Unlicensed Dog Boarding Business Discovered with 28 Dogs in Cramped Conditions in Risca**
A mother and daughter duo from Risca, Caerphilly, have been exposed for operating an unlicensed dog boarding enterprise from their home and later a commercial premises, raising concerns over animal welfare and the legality of their business practices. The case came to light after complaints over overcrowded conditions and a subsequent investigation by local authorities.
Deborah Edwards, aged 64, alongside her daughter Lydia Perkins, 34, admitted to running the business without the necessary licences between January and October of last year. According to Cardiff Crown Court proceedings, the pair failed to inform customers they were no longer authorised to board animals, despite Edwards’ previous licence having lapsed at the end of 2022.
The court heard that at one point, as many as 28 dogs were found kept together in what were described as overcrowded, yet otherwise acceptable, conditions. This revelation followed a warrant executed by authorities at two separate locations associated with Edwards’ business activities last October. Animal welfare officers took swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, although no immediate harm to the dogs was detected beyond the excessive numbers being cared for onsite.
Investigators identified a significant turnover linked to the unlicensed enterprise, with more than £119,000 transferred into Edwards’ bank accounts during the period in question. Of this, it was estimated that £60,359 had been generated through the unregistered side of the business, though the true figure could be higher as cash payments remain unaccounted for. Records revealed a systematic attempt to obscure incriminating evidence, including the removal of pages from logbooks and the concealment of business communication with clients.
Additionally, it emerged that although Edwards maintained an insurance policy, it was rendered void owing to the absence of a valid boarding licence. Customers who entrusted their pets to Edwards and Perkins were also found to be unaware of the lack of legal oversight or protection for their animals during stays at the premises.
Deborah Edwards pleaded guilty to several charges, including operating an animal boarding establishment without a licence, fraudulently conducting business, misleading customers, and knowingly pursuing illegal commercial practices. Her daughter, Lydia Perkins, faced identical charges and had already been sentenced at Newport Magistrates’ Court, receiving a £200 fine and an order to pay £2,000 towards costs.
Defence counsel for Edwards argued that the venture had begun as a legitimate family-run service with loyal clientele. However, after failing to renew the business licence in 2023, Edwards continued operations, citing an inability to refuse returning customers—a flaw her defence said led to her current predicament. The court was told Edwards experienced significant distress over the situation, seeking mental health support and expressing profound remorse.
Passing sentence, Judge Shomon Khan underscored the seriousness of the offences, describing the £60,000 fraud as “very serious”. Edwards received a one-year jail term, suspended for 18 months, and was mandated to complete 10 days’ worth of rehabilitation activities in addition to paying £1,000 in costs.
Following the case, Councillor Philippa Leonard, representing public protection at Caerphilly County Borough Council, stressed the importance of strict licencing for animal boarding businesses. She warned that unlicensed establishments undermine public trust and endanger pet welfare, as the regulatory framework exists to ensure safety and proper standards are always maintained.
The council reiterated its commitment to animal welfare, encouraging pet owners to always verify the credentials of boarding providers before entrusting them with their animals. The authorities hope that this prosecution acts as a deterrent for others considering bypassing regulations, reinforcing that breaches will be identified and prosecuted accordingly.
The incident serves as a stark reminder for pet owners to be vigilant when seeking care for their animals, and for those running such businesses to adhere strictly to legal and ethical obligations for the sake of both pets and their owners.