An Ayrshire couple has been disqualified from owning or keeping more than one dog.

An Ayrshire couple has been disqualified from owning or keeping more than one dog for a period of five years following a lengthy investigation by the Scottish SPCA into dog breeding activity in East Ayrshire.

Stephen and Hazel Hamilton, of Newmilns, were sentenced at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court on 26 January 2026. Both were made subject to community payback orders and instructed to complete 200 hours of unpaid work each over a 12-month period.

The couple previously pled guilty on 13 December 2023 to animal neglect charges, including failing to meet the welfare needs of a number of dogs kept at their premises and failing to provide appropriate veterinary treatment. The court heard that this resulted in pain and suffering for several animals.

The case followed a five-year investigation by the Scottish SPCA, during which 33 dogs were seized from properties linked to the couple.

In evidence presented to the court, the Scottish SPCA detailed how warrants were executed simultaneously on two properties on 27 November 2020. Inspectors reported finding conditions consistent with large-scale commercial breeding, with a high number of animals and indications that profit was prioritised over animal welfare.

At one property, investigators discovered evidence that puppies were being sold from what was described as a “show living room”. The main site was found to be secured with electronic gates and CCTV.

Inspectors stated that Mrs Hamilton initially indicated only a small number of dogs were present. However, a total of 32 dogs were later found on the premises. The volume of animals led investigators to conclude that a breeding operation was being run.

Within kennel areas, dogs were found to be housed on plastic beds and soiled carpeting rather than suitable bedding. Several animals were described as fearful and withdrawn, with limited signs of socialisation. Inspectors also reported enclosures contaminated with faeces and a number of dogs suffering from untreated medical conditions and parasites.

During searches of the properties, investigators recovered syringes, microchips and unauthorised parasite medications intended for use on livestock. Needles were also found that later tested positive for DNA from multiple dogs. Due to concerns about animal welfare and the potential spread of disease, all animals were removed and taken into the care of the Scottish SPCA.

The court was told that a number of individuals had purchased puppies from the Hamiltons at different locations. Investigations established that some microchips implanted in puppies had been purchased by UK Dog Breeding Academy, formerly known as Furnish Kennels.

A spokesperson for the Scottish SPCA said the animals involved had suffered over a prolonged period, both physically and psychologically, and welcomed the conclusion of the case. While acknowledging the sheriff’s decision, the charity said it hoped the disqualification order would act as a deterrent and reinforce that animal cruelty would not be tolerated.

The charity also issued a reminder to the public to exercise caution when purchasing puppies, particularly online or from sellers where the origin of the animal cannot be verified. It advised prospective owners to research breeders carefully and seek veterinary advice promptly if a newly purchased puppy shows signs of illness or distress.

Anne Marie Hicks, Procurator Fiscal for North Strathclyde, said the case demonstrated serious neglect.

She said: “Stephen and Hazel Hamilton demonstrated an appalling disregard for the wellbeing of animals in their care. Some of these dogs endured significant suffering and the conditions they were kept in were shocking.”

Anyone wishing to report concerns about animal welfare is advised to contact the Scottish SPCA through its official website.