Home / Crime and Justice / Devon Woman Guilty of Unlicensed Dog Breeding
Devon Woman Guilty of Unlicensed Dog Breeding
4 Jul
Summary
- A councillor called the animal welfare case 'deeply concerning'.
- Dogs were found living in cramped, poor conditions with little water.
- Buyers complained of puppies suffering from biting lice infestations.
A significant animal welfare case has concluded with Tara Coshall, 55, of Woolsery, Devon, being found guilty of breeding dogs without the required animal activity licence. The conviction came after complaints were made in October 2025 by buyers of golden retriever puppies. These buyers reported that the puppies suffered from biting lice infestations, sores, and scabs, necessitating veterinary treatment.
Upon investigation, council officers found the dogs living in poor conditions. Some were confined to a cramped storage cupboard with inadequate water access. The outside run’s carpeted surfaces were suspected of contributing to the lice infestation. Coshall reportedly created a deceptive viewing area with better conditions for potential buyers, generating £21,000 from two litters.
Coshall had previously held a licence but cancelled it in 2023, stating she was no longer breeding. She was also cited for transporting 15 puppies in the back of a small van without any restraint or containment. Torridge District Council is now urging the public to verify that any business offering pet sales, home boarding, or daycare services holds the appropriate licence.
