Braintree District Council has successfully prosecuted an unlicensed dog boarder, who caused unnecessary suffering to a beloved family pet that died as a result.
Braintree District Council has successfully prosecuted an unlicensed dog boarder, who caused unnecessary suffering to a beloved family pet that died as a result.
Miss Sutton, of Braintree, failed to obtain a dog home boarding licence in accordance with The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 from Braintree District Council despite repeated attempts from the Council to communicate the legal requirements to her.
On a very hot day on 2 August 2024, while operating without a licence, Miss Sutton left a dog unattended at her property for a significant period without supervision.
Hero, a 10.5 stone male Leonberger dog with a thick double coat, sadly died as a result at the age of six.
Hero’s owner, Leighanne Ship, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Braintree District Council for taking on this case and pursuing it through to a successful prosecution. In particular, we would like to thank the investigating officer, whose dedication, professionalism and determination never wavered. His experience, compassion and relentless commitment to uncovering the truth have meant more to our family than words can adequately express.
“Hero was the gentlest, kindest and most patient soul who brought comfort to everyone around him. It was this unique nature that made him such a wonderful therapy dog, and we know the many people he helped will remember him fondly. The loss of Hero has left a space in our lives that can never be filled, and our family will never be the same without him.
“Whilst nothing will ever bring Hero back, we finally have justice for him and some measure of closure. We hope Hero's story serves as a reminder of the importance of using properly licensed animal boarding providers and of the immense responsibility that comes with caring for someone else's beloved pet. If sharing our experience prevents even one family from suffering the heartbreak, uncertainty and anguish that we have endured, then Hero's legacy will continue to protect others."
The case was heard at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on 15 July 2026 by District Judge Williams.
Miss Sutton was found guilty of S.4 Unnecessary suffering offence and pleaded guilty to S.13 Licensing or registration of activities involving animals’ offence both under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
As a result, Sutton has been sentenced to a 26-week suspended sentence order (suspended for two years), 150 hours of unpaid work, required to contribute £10,000 towards Braintree District Council’s prosecution costs and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154.
Cllr Toby Williams, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Wellbeing, said: “The loss of a pet is devastating, and this case highlights the importance of ensuring anyone caring for your pet is officially licensed. If you have any concerns that someone is operating without a licence in the Braintree District, we urge you to report it to our licensing team to investigate.”