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Dog breeder hands 42 Dalmatians to RSPCA

More than 40 Dalmatians kept in a field have been voluntarily handed over to the RSPCA by the owner following complaints by neighbours about the welfare, noise, and smell of the animals.

 
Dog breeder Michelle Cousins hands 42 Dalmatians to RSPCA
The RSPCA said Miss Cousins had voluntarily signed over 42 Dalmatians, some of which have already been re-homed Photo: SWNS

Michelle Cousins, 42, a breeder, who was warned by the RSPCA about improving conditions at her property in Polperro, Cornwall, claimed she was the victim of a "witch hunt" by local residents who had forced her out of business.

Earlier this year, residents claimed the Dalmatians roamed in packs, and that on two separate occasions, dogs strayed and were found drowned in nearby swimming pools.

The RSPCA said Miss Cousins had voluntarily signed over 42 Dalmatians, some of which have already been re-homed. The owner was keeping six of the animals as pets, all of which have been neutered.

The RSPCA said some of the animals had mange but, otherwise, they were not in need of treatment. Miss Cousins was not being charged with any offences.

Miss Cousins said she now planned to emigrate. "I do not think the dogs were a problem at all. Most of the time they just eat and sleep.

"I have been the victim of malicious accusations and a witch hunt.

"I am going to a country where animals are a lot more accepted and appreciated than in this country."

 
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