Fines Issued to Farmer Due to Animal Welfare Breach

Monday, 24 November 2025 15:02

Following a Wiltshire Council investigation, a Wiltshire farmer has been issued with two Animal Penalty Notices (APNs), totalling £840, following breaches of animal welfare legislation.

These are the first APNs to be issued in Wiltshire, marking a significant step forward in the county’s approach to enforcing animal welfare standards.

APNs are a valuable enforcement tool in animal welfare cases, allowing enforcement officers to respond proportionately to clear breaches of animal welfare legislation, without the need for lengthy and costly court proceedings.

Wiltshire Council’s Animal Health team launched an investigation after a report was received from the official veterinarian at an abattoir, raising concerns about the condition of a cow.

The vet believed that the cow was suffering with an ongoing infection, possibly linked to a ruptured corneal ulcer. Transporting animals in such a condition is a breach of animal welfare legislation, which requires that all livestock be fit for the journey to prevent unnecessary suffering.

During the investigation, the farmer claimed the abnormality had been present since he acquired the cow three months earlier and believed it to be a birth defect. The farmer was issued with two APNs, one for unlawfully transporting an injured animal deemed unfit for travel, and another for failing to seek veterinary advice for the injury.

The haulier who transported the animal from the farm to the abattoir was also issued with a £500 APN. They claimed not to have noticed the abnormality, which the vet described as significant.

Both parties co-operated fully with the investigation and have since paid the fines. APNs are reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days. As APNs are not court convictions, those involved cannot be publicly named.

Cllr Paul Sample, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Cruelty to animals is not tolerated in Wiltshire. The welfare of animals during transport is a legal duty. Moving a cow that was clearly unfit to travel caused pain and distress to the animal. It also undermined the high standards upheld by responsible farmers across the County. We will continue to work closely with farmers and hauliers to ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations.

“Anyone with concerns about the transport or treatment of animals is encouraged to report them to the council’s Animal Health team.”