Warning: Disturbing Images – Torquay woman banned from keeping animals after RSPCA rescues neglected dogs and puppies

A Torquay woman who neglected a group of dogs including a litter of puppies has been banned from keeping animals for ten years following an investigation by the RSPCA.

Tanaya Jade Robins, 27, of Warren Hill, Torquay, pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences when she appeared at Newton Abbot Magistrates’ Court on February 19.

Fifteen dogs were rescued by the RSPCA on January 29, 2025, including a cane corso named Mika and her litter of eleven five-week-old puppies. Two other dogs – a cane corso-type called Chaos and a bull-breed type named Rocco – were also removed after concerns were raised about their welfare.

RSPCA officers attended the property alongside police and found Mika to be severely underweight. When questioned, Robins said the dog had not recently seen a vet and claimed she was waiting until she was paid, although she suspected Mika might have pyometra, an infection of the uterus.

Robins told officers the dog had given birth to puppies on December 26, 2024 and that all had died, adding that their bodies were stored in a freezer at the property.

However, while officers were at the house they heard the sound of puppies. This led to the discovery of eleven live puppies hidden in the roof space of the property. Access to the area had been concealed by a chest of drawers in a bedroom. The bodies of three deceased puppies were later found in the freezer.

A vet who examined the animals said in a report to the court: “Mika was severely underweight with signs of emaciation, she had a body condition score of 1/9 meaning her bony prominences were all evident from a distance. Mika had severe loss of muscle mass, with severe muscle atrophy. This degree of subcutaneous fat loss and muscle atrophy shows chronic malnutrition.

“Assessment of Mika’s eleven puppies showed all were small with poor body conditions and coat quality, indicating subpar nutrition during their development.

“Clearly the needs of Mika and her puppies had not been met and they had not been cared for adequately.”

In mitigation, the court heard that the neglect was described as “intentioned but incompetent care” and that Robins had experienced personal difficulties following the death of her partner.

Beccy Wadey, an RSPCA inspector who investigated the case, said: “Our plea to all animal owners is to make sure they always receive care when needed.

“Animals are completely reliant on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy. Owning an animal is a privilege – and ensuring an appropriate diet and suitable environment is a key part of the responsibility we have towards them.”

Robins was sentenced to 18 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months. She must also complete up to 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days and pay £800 in costs along with a £154 victim surcharge.

All of the dogs recovered while in the care of the RSPCA and have since been rehomed.