Lynda Cooper, a 74-year-old owner of a Crufts-winning dog, has been banned from keeping animals for ten years after 77 dogs under her care were found to be suffering from neglect. The case came to light following an inspection of her property in Pontypool, Torfaen, in August 2024, where more than 40 dogs and two litters of puppies were discovered. Cooper, who owned Carlos, a Bracco Italiano gun dog that won six trophies at Crufts in 2016, did not hold a breeding licence.

During the inspection, authorities found that many of the animals were in poor condition, with the puppies notably malnourished. Several dogs exhibited severe dental disease and ear infections. The welfare issues were severe enough that five dogs were euthanised, and two others died shortly after being rehomed.

At Cardiff Crown Court, Cooper pleaded guilty to 11 offences, including causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the welfare needs of the dogs. Her defence counsel stated that Cooper’s neglect was linked to a personal bereavement, describing her actions as resulting from neglect rather than deliberate cruelty.

Recorder Greg Bull KC sentenced Cooper to 12 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and mandated that she complete mental health treatment sessions. In addition, she was ordered to pay £10,000 in costs within 12 months and was prohibited from keeping any dogs for ten years. The court’s ruling underscored the seriousness of the animal welfare offences, while also taking into account the mitigating circumstances presented in her defence.