Puppy breeder gets two-year ban, $5000 fine - but can still keep pets
A dog breeder and seller has been convicted, fined $5000 and slapped with a two-year ban.
RSPCA investigators swooped on the woman's property multiple times over the breeding and selling of animals in breach of domestic animal laws, seizing seven poodle crosses and pug puppies last October.
Anessa Blackwood pleaded guilty in Ballarat Magistrates Court to two counts each of conducting a domestic animal business on an unregistered premises and breaching the mandatory code of practice for breeding and rearing.
She also pleaded guilty to single counts of advertising animals for sale without a microchip number and failing to comply with an authorised officer's instructions.
Ms Blackwood, who has a history of similar offending, was convicted on Thursday, fined $5000 and given a two-year ban on operating or working in a domestic animal business.
RSPCA major investigations team inspector Lauren Roberts said it was an especially positive day for the seven puppies involved in the case, which can now be re-homed after almost seven months in limbo while the court matter was finalised.
"These are the type of outcomes that really make all the hard work worthwhile," she said.
Ms Roberts said the case was a step to further stamp out unscrupulous behaviour in the animal breeding industry.
"We hope the outcome will send a strong message this behaviour will not be tolerated and offenders will be found and held to account," she said.
AAP