RACHEL MORTIMORE OF TAUNTON CONVICTED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY AT FOXDOWN DOG TRAINING CENTRE

Rachel Mortimore, a former Crufts medal winner and well-known figure in the dog breeding community, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to animals at her property in Taunton. Born on July 30, 1954, Mortimore resided at Foxdown House, located in the TA3 7DY postcode area. Her conviction stems from a disturbing case in November 2010, when authorities discovered approximately 300 animals living in deplorable conditions at her facility, known as Culmhead’s Foxdown Dog Training Centre.

Among the animals seized were dogs, cats, horses, chickens, ferrets, and rabbits, all kept in environments described by RSPCA inspectors as 'filthy, horrible and unbelievable.' The investigation revealed severe neglect, with specific attention drawn to a Toller retriever dog that was found with a large hole in the side of its face, caused by an infected abscess in its mouth that had been left untreated for an extended period. Additionally, a cat was discovered with an ulcer on her eye, which, if left untreated, could have resulted in the eye bursting or 'popping.'

During a hearing in July 2011, Mortimore admitted to two charges of causing unnecessary suffering to animals. The court heard that her facility was overcrowded, making it impossible for her to provide proper care for each animal. Recorder Michael Parroy QC emphasized that the sheer number of animals on the premises was a clear indication of neglect and inability to meet their needs.

In addition to her involvement in animal training, Mortimore is also recognized as a dog breeder, specializing in Toller puppies, which she sells for approximately £750 each. She operates what is considered the largest breeding kennels for the breed in the country.

As part of her sentencing, Mortimore was ordered to complete 140 hours of community service and pay £1,000 in costs. She was initially banned from keeping animals for life; however, this ban was later reduced to 18 years following an appeal. She is permitted to apply for the ban to be lifted after nine years from her conviction date, which would be around July 2020, giving her a potential opportunity to regain her ability to keep animals in the future.