We would like to make a formal statement in respect of the numerous unsubstantiated allegations which are being made on various social media platforms. There are no ongoing proceedings against Wiccaweys or against Sarah and Paul by either the RSPCA or the police. In order to alleviate the concerns which some individualsappear to be expressing and inciting, we wish to set the record straight and provide a brief account of the history of the RSPCA investigation to date. The dogs which were removed by the RSPCA were returned to Wiccaweys in November 2013. No action was taken by the RSPCA and we received a verbal admission in front of witnesses and legal representation stating that the action taken in removing the dogs was incorrect and should never have happened. Given at the time the dogs were removed we had no experience of being the subject of any sort of investigation, we were in a state of panic and perhaps naïve in allowing the RSPCA to take the dogs. The Chief Inspector responsible for removing the dogs later also admitted in front of witnesses that having bought all the resources he had, gaining a warrant, bringing the police, he felt backed into a corner on the day of taking some action as those who had reported the rescue were present. Had they not been present onsite he would have made a very different decision. Bear in mind Wiccaweys welcomed an RSPCA Inspector onsite only 6 weeks previously and at that time no concerns of any kind were raised. It has been stated on legal record that at NO TIME was the RSPCA investigating any allegation of cruelty. There was never, ever any question of cruelty against any animal historically or otherwise. All the dogs removed by RSPCA were in very good health, clean and of good weight. This was all confirmed by the 2 vets present on the day. Unfortunately this wasn’t the same case with some of the dogs when they were returned to Wiccaweys. This was following 6 months in the care of the RSPCA. An RSPCA Chief Inspector stated to us in front of witnesses that this was ‘Unforgivable’. This matter has been subject to a separate enquiry which we cannot comment on at this stage. The RSPCA have conducted further visits to Wiccaweys and have been more than content with the rescue, the kennels set-up and have concluded their investigation into the rescue. The RSPCA approved our kennels and we have since been asked to take in dogs from the RSPCA Centres, which clearly demonstrates their approval of the rescue. Wiccaweys encourages, and is subject to, regular vet site visits including spot checks, and visits have also been undertaken by respected trainers and we understand that these individuals have been clear in their approval of the kennels and the way in which the dogs are treated at Wiccaweys. Environmental Health are content with the set-up of the kennels which are built to boarding kennels legislation size and with the wellbeing of the dogs being paramount. Further to the campaign of harassment and malicious communications, we had no choice than to refer this matter to the police and we understand that they are in the process of speaking to various individuals. For this reason we cannot comment further, save to say that the police have visited the kennels and have been very content with the rescue. Given the level of the threats made towards us, the police have been made aware of the comments which have been posted on the Wiccaweys Uncovered facebook group. Be assured that the police are taking this matter very seriously as not only have threats been made to the rescue, our property and ourselves but also to a number of third parties, including our vets, landlords and supporters amongst others. We do not intend to let the behaviour of a few individuals, many who have never visited Wiccaweys or met ourselves or our animals,diminish our ability to help the numerous dogs which need our help, support and specialised care. We set out to help as many dogs as we possibly could, fuelled by our love for animals. As anyone in rescue will tell you it is a difficult and often testing job and we strive to do the very best we can. This matter is now almost 2 years old. It has been a very difficult and upsetting time however we have moved on. We will continue to do the best we can for all the dogs that require our assistance. We ask that this matter now be left in the hands of those investigating. We are not inviting comment or discussion on this statement and any comments will be removed. Following legal advice we will not be making any further comment on this topic.
Posted on: Thu, 09 Oct 2014 13:53:28 +0000
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