UK dog rescues are in crisis. The RSPCA reports record numbers of dogs in need, and local rescues like Homeward Bound are now turning dogs away because council kennels are at full capacity.

With the cost-of-living crisis, rising unemployment, and increasing welfare dependency, families are already struggling — yet more puppies continue to be bred.

At Summerer Farm in Poulton-Le-Fylde, Singleton, Lancashire, the owner has already built two kennel buildings with 18 spaces and associated infrastructure without planning permission. He is now seeking retrospective approval to breed working gundogs commercially on this 500-acre dairy farm.

There are already several dedicated gundog rescues full of Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, and other working dogs needing homes — many surrendered as “failed” working dogs, retired dogs, or because their high energy and drive were underestimated by owners.

This retrospective application must be refused.

Key reasons to reject it:

• The two kennel buildings and associated infrastructure have been constructed without planning permission in open countryside where such development is normally prohibited.
• Granting retrospective permission sends a dangerous message that developers can bypass planning rules, build first, and expect to be approved later. 
• Dog breeding is not essential to the dairy farm and does not qualify as essential agricultural development — it is purely a commercial venture.
• Noise from up to 18 adult dogs plus their puppies (with around 6 litters per year) risks disturbing nearby homes. 
• Dedicated gundog rescues are already struggling to rehome unwanted and retired working dogs, showing that supply already exceeds demand.

If the farmer needs working gundogs, he should rehome and train existing dogs from rescues instead of breeding more puppies.

Fylde Council must reject this application, protect the open countryside, uphold planning laws, and prioritise animal welfare over commercial profit.

Please sign and share widely — every signature counts.