Goldfish sting leads to disqualification
A licensing sting, involving a goldfish, has led to a Margate
man being disqualified from keeping a pet shop for three years.
Gary Dean Curtis from Eastchurch Road in Margate pleaded guilty
to running a pet shop without a licence in a hearing at Margate
Magistrates Court on Monday (14 July).
Mr. Curtis had operated Birds for You in Northdown Road,
Cliftonville for a number of years, with a licence issued by Thanet
District Council, that was due for renewal annually. The licence
expired on 31 December 2007 and renewal information was sent out in
October 2007, followed by two reminder letters during January
2008.
The licence, which currently costs £173, plus the vet’s fee of
£98, ensures that the premises are suitable and that the animals
within are being properly cared for.
A Licensing Officer from the council visited the premises on 9
May 2008 and saw pets displayed in the premises. They spoke to Mr.
Curtis about this and a further letter was then sent to him on 12
May 2008, advising him of the penalties should the licence not be
renewed.
On 22 May 2008, a Licensing Officer again visited the premises
and found budgies, cockatiels, gerbils, rabbits and fish on display
inside the shop. She told Mr. Curtis that she wanted to buy a
goldfish and, after some discussion, was sold one for £3.50. She
also enquired about the price of rabbits and was told £15. She left
the shop with the goldfish.
A few minutes later, she returned to the shop with a colleague
and identified herself, cautioning Mr. Curtis. When asked why he
was selling animals without a licence, he replied “because I can’t
afford a licence and I’m closing down”. He acknowledged that he was
aware a licence was required to sell animals. After leaving the
shop, officers advised the RSPCA of the situation.
As well as being disqualified from keeping a pet shop for three
years, he was also fined £150 and ordered to pay £120 costs.
Cllr. Jo Gideon, Cabinet Member for Safer Neighbourhoods, Health
and Communities, said: “The licences for pet shops are in place for
a good reason, like all our licences. In this case, it’s to ensure
that the animals are properly cared for in suitable premises, with
a vet’s inspection. That’s why it’s so important to act when our
officers are aware of cases like this.”
ENDS