KELLY LATUSKIE PUPPY FARMER FROM LOCKERBIE AND CARLISLE SENTENCED FOR CRUELTY AND ILLEGAL BREEDING

Kelly Latuskie, a puppy farmer born around 1973, who has connections to both Carlisle and Waterbeck near Lockerbie, was found guilty in 2021 of multiple animal welfare violations. Her operations involved the breeding of at least 116 dogs under conditions that were deemed to be extremely neglectful and inhumane.

Authorities uncovered her illegal activities at two separate locations: Newlands Farm Cottage in Carleton, Carlisle, and a site at Willowholme Industrial Estate in Carlisle city. The investigation was prompted by a tip-off indicating that Latuskie was exceeding her licensed breeding capacity and caring for more dogs than the 30 permitted at her daycare business. This led to a detailed search of official microchipping databases, which revealed that she had registered and sold a minimum of 117 puppies, specifically Cavapoos and Cockapoos, between June 2019 and December 2020. These figures indicated she was operating beyond her legal allowances, as she was only authorized to breed one litter at a time.

In December 2020, officials conducted a thorough inspection of her property. They discovered 22 dogs living in conditions described as 'squalid and dirty.' The animals included two stud dogs and 20 breeding bitches, despite her license permitting only four. Many of these dogs were suffering from health issues such as ear infections and dental diseases. A veterinary surgeon appointed by the council confirmed that the animals were 'suffering from chronic neglect' and were in a state of ongoing health deterioration.

Further investigations revealed that Latuskie’s inadequate transport and housing arrangements led to the tragic death of five dogs, who were killed by other dogs due to the poor conditions and lack of proper containment. An inspection of her 'Bark in the Park' boarding kennels, where she kept additional dogs, found 36 animals on site, exceeding the maximum allowed capacity of 30.

Throughout the proceedings, it was estimated that Latuskie had earned approximately £150,000 from her puppy farming activities. During her court appearance, she was visibly distressed and wept as she was sentenced for her crimes.

Her sentencing included a 16-week custodial sentence, which was suspended for 18 months. She was ordered to pay costs amounting to £16,981.83 to Carlisle City Council and a victim surcharge of £128. Additionally, she was banned from owning, keeping, dealing, or transporting animals. She is also prohibited from working in any business involving animals and cannot appeal to lift this ban for three years. Furthermore, she is permanently barred from applying for a council license to operate any animal-related business, effectively ending her ability to legally breed or care for animals in the future.