GEORGE MILLER'S ILLEGAL DOG SALES IN MORECAMBE EXPOSED AND PUNISHED

In a significant crackdown on illegal dog trading, George Miller, a known figure from Morecambe, has been found guilty of multiple offences related to the unlicensed sale of puppies. Miller, who previously resided on Woodlands Drive in Heysham and as of May 2024 has been living on Loupsfell Drive, LA4 4SB in Morecambe, was charged with two serious violations concerning the sale of dogs without proper licensing.

The charges against Miller stem from an investigation conducted by Animal Protection Services, a charity dedicated to safeguarding animal welfare. The investigation was prompted by reports and evidence of unlicensed puppy sales in the North West region, which included Miller’s activities. The charity’s efforts focused on uncovering illegal breeders and sellers who bypass legal requirements, thereby risking animal welfare and consumer safety.

Miller, a traveller by background, admitted guilt in court to two key offences: the unlicensed sale of animals as pets, which breaches the Animal Welfare Act, and the unlawful sale of pets in violation of consumer protection laws. His illegal dealings generated more than £15,000 in revenue, primarily from the sale of Miniature Dachshunds, Cockapoos, and French Bulldogs. These breeds, especially Cockapoos—a crossbreed of Cocker Spaniels and Poodles—are highly sought after, making them prime targets for illegal breeders seeking quick profits.

Jacob Lloyd, a representative from Animal Protection Services, explained to LancsLive that Cockapoos are the most commonly farmed breed encountered by the charity. Lloyd emphasized the growing demand for such crossbreeds, which has unfortunately led to an increase in organised crime within the puppy trade. He highlighted that this illegal activity not only endangers animal welfare but also contributes to the rising trend of dog thefts across the country, as criminal networks exploit the high demand for popular breeds.

The investigation into Miller’s activities was initiated after he sold several dogs through the Pets4Home website, a popular online platform for pet sales. Lloyd described the process as challenging but ultimately rewarding, as it led to Miller’s guilty plea and subsequent sentencing. The court imposed a substantial fine of £1,173 and ordered Miller to contribute £900 towards prosecution costs. Additionally, Miller was disqualified from dealing in dogs—both selling and breeding—for a period of three years, a ban that expired in March 2024.

Animal Protection Services underscored the importance of strict licensing and regulation in the puppy trade. They warned that trading puppies without a license undermines animal welfare standards and consumer protections, creating a low-risk, high-reward environment for illegal traders. The charity remains committed to pursuing justice against those involved in such illicit activities, aiming to dismantle organised criminal networks and protect vulnerable animals.

In a related development in May 2024, Miller was also convicted alongside Lewis Sheridan of Bolton for hare coursing offences in Lincolnshire. Both individuals received a 10-year Criminal Behaviour Order and fines totaling approximately £4,500, further highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat various forms of animal-related crime.