JOHN CACADE AND KELLY WEBB SENTENCED OVER DOGS IN SQUALID CONDITIONS IN STROUD AND ARLINGHAM

In a disturbing case that has drawn significant attention to animal welfare issues in the Gloucestershire area, authorities uncovered a situation involving dogs kept in deplorable and overcrowded conditions at a property in Arlingham. The investigation was initiated in June 2023 after concerns were raised by naturewatch.org regarding unlicensed dog breeding and the overall welfare of the animals involved.

Following these reports, law enforcement officials executed a warrant at the property, leading to the seizure of seven adult dogs along with a litter of puppies. An independent veterinary assessment was conducted on the animals, revealing serious health and welfare concerns that underscored the neglect and poor living conditions they had endured.

John Cacade and Kelly Webb, the individuals responsible for the care of these dogs, were present during police interviews but chose not to comment on the situation. Subsequently, Stroud District Council took legal action to secure ownership of the animals under Section 20 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Since the seizure, all but one of the dogs have been successfully rehomed, providing them with a chance at a better life.

On March 17, 2025, John Cacade admitted to breaching multiple sections of the Animal Welfare Act, specifically Sections 4 and 9, which relate to the welfare and proper care of animals. He also acknowledged operating as an unlicensed dog breeder, a violation that carries serious legal implications. His sentencing took place on March 30 at Gloucester Crown Court, where he was handed a 12-month community order, required to complete 100 hours of unpaid work, and was banned from keeping dogs for a period of ten years under Section 34. Additionally, Cacade was ordered to pay costs amounting to £2,000.

Kelly Webb appeared at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on May 2, where she pleaded guilty to similar offences. Her charges included failing to meet the basic needs of animals in her care and engaging in unlicensed breeding activities. Webb received a nine-month community order, a five-year ban from keeping dogs, and was ordered to pay £500 in costs, along with a fine of £129 and a victim surcharge of £114. The case highlights ongoing concerns about animal neglect and illegal breeding practices in the Gloucestershire region, particularly around the Stroud and Arlingham areas.