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Breeder Convicted of Animal Welfare Offences in Cardiff
Eugene Vatsaloo, a 57-year-old dog breeder operating under the name Prizebullz Kennels, has been convicted of animal welfare offences related to the illegal practice of ear cropping. A five-day trial at Cardiff Crown Court found Vatsaloo guilty of 13 offences after the RSPCA presented evidence collected during an investigation.
The case against Vatsaloo began when a witness purchased a puppy from him that had undergone the ear-cropping procedure, which is outlawed in the UK. Vatsaloo was reportedly selling dogs to high-profile individuals, claiming he even sold a dog without cropped ears to the Kardashians.
RSPCA investigators linked Vatsaloo to a network of breeders involved in similar practices worldwide. Their research indicated that at least 13 dogs bred by Vatsaloo remained in his care with cropped ears. Social media activity revealed that Vatsaloo had been arranging for puppies to have their ears cropped for at least two years, attracting millions of views online.
On May 2024, RSPCA officers, in collaboration with South Wales Police, executed a warrant at Vatsaloo’s home in Tonyrefail, Rhondda Cynon Taf. However, they found no dogs or breeding materials at the property. The prosecution was heavily reliant on evidence sourced from Vatsaloo’s own social media accounts.
Inspector Caroline Richardson, leading the investigation, noted that the widespread visibility of Vatsaloo’s activities on social media ultimately contributed to his downfall. She expressed hopes that the investigation would prevent further instances of ear cropping, a procedure often conducted without anaesthetic, which can lead to significant health issues for the animals involved.
Vatsaloo was found guilty on all counts related to the cropping of several pocket bullies, and he is scheduled for sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court on November 24.
