A MAN has been arrested and two dogs seized after police executed an animal welfare warrant at a property in Clayhanger, near Stawley.

Officers arrived at the premises at about 7 am to carry out the warrant following concerns reported to the district council in Mid Devon.

The raid happened just 12 days after a nighttime fire at the property destroyed a shed which was being used as a kennels.

Four dogs died in the blaze, which saw firefighting crews called from stations in Wellington, Wiveliscombe, Dulverton, and Bampton.

The first fire teams to arrive on site at about 9.30 pm found the building was already well alight and called for more appliances and a water bowser.

They needed scene lighting to illuminate the operation and used four sets of breathing apparatus, hose reel, safety, and attack jets to tackle the blaze.

A fire scenes investigation decided the cause of the incident had been ‘accidental’.

Now, a man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of firearms and animal welfare offences after the raid on the property, which happened on Monday, May 11, the information about which has only recently been made public.

Police said he had later been released under investigation while officers continued with their inquiries.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary neighbourhood policing beat manager PC Neil Minehan led the joint operation.

PC Minehan said afterward: “Animal welfare is something we take seriously, and the results of this warrant demonstrate the value of information provided by the public and partner organisations.

“If you are worried about an animal’s welfare, please do not hesitate to report it.

“Speaking up can help protect vulnerable animals and ensure they receive the care they need.”

The neighbourhood policing team was supported by district council licensing staff and officers from the RSPCA charity.

Two dogs, a terrier suffering from injuries and infection, and a heavily pregnant beagle, were seized under section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act.

PC Minehan said both animals were now in the care of the RSPCA, which was leading the inquiries into potential animal welfare offences.

The council officers also issued improvement notices relating to the welfare of other animals found at the property.

Council regulatory officer Amy Sully said: “Everybody has a responsibility to protect animal welfare, and there is no excuse for animals to be left to suffer.

“We urge anybody aware of potential welfare offences to report them to the relevant authorities, including the council’s licensing team, the police, or the RSPCA.

“As the licensing authority for animal activities, we take all concerns seriously and encourage the public to contact us so we can take appropriate action.”

Anybody concerned about animal welfare is encouraged to contact the RSPCA by calling 0300 1234 999 or visiting its website or to report their concerns to their local council.

If an incident requires immediate intervention or involves animals fighting, people should always call for police on the emergency 999 line.