Judge Deliberates in Animal Welfare Case Against Hertfordshire Dog Daycare Owner

Wiseman admitted to caring for dogs without a license at a property off Upper Bourne End Lane, Hemel Hempstead, between June 13, 2024, and January 21, 2025. However, she denied allegations concerning the welfare of dogs under her care at another location off Cupid Green, Hemel Hempstead, between November 1, 2022, and June 13, 2024.

During the hearing, Wiseman gave evidence alongside four witnesses in her defense. Two customers testified that they never observed Wiseman preventing dogs from accessing food or water, and they refuted claims that she mistreated dogs or allowed them to fight.

Wiseman's father, Robert Wiseman, described his involvement in the daycare, stating he assisted with tasks such as collecting and walking dogs. When questioned about a specific incident involving a former employee, Robert dismissed the claims, asserting that the situation was unsafe if it involved managing numerous dogs without adequate supervision.

Prosecution barrister Ellis Sureen emphasized that witnesses reported dogs were kept overnight in shipping containers amid unsanitary conditions. He argued that there was a pattern of dog fighting reported by former employees, leading to minor injuries among staff. Sureen questioned Wiseman's credibility, pointing out her admission of misleading council officers regarding necessary permissions and the lack of sufficient documentation to support her claims.

Defense barrister Mercedes Pascal urged the judge to consider the charges separately. She contended that while there was a licensing breach, it was crucial to establish whether the dogs' welfare was indeed compromised during their time in unlicensed care. She argued that taking on larger dogs with behavioral issues should not be considered a fault and reiterated that Wiseman prioritized the dogs' welfare.

The judge is set to announce his ruling at 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 24.