Animal Licensing Wales attended the rescue facility alongside officers from Dyfed-Powys Police
19:54, 12 Mar 2026Updated 20:03, 12 Mar 2026
Dogs pictured at Many Tears Animal Rescue Centre during a previous visit (Image: John Myers)
An investigation has been launched into an animal rescue centre in Wales after concerns were raised by pet owners around treatment of dogs kept at the facility.
Inspectors from Animal Licensing Wales (ALW), accompanied by police officers from Dyfed-Powys Police, attended Many Tears rescue centre in Cefneithin in Carmarthenshire on Tuesday, March 10 following allegations of malpractice.
A spokesperson for ALW confirmed an investigation is ongoing. A spokesperson for Many Tears said they treat their animals “exceptionally” and said they were “working closely” with the authorities.
It’s understood no animals have been removed from the premises while it is continuing to operate currently. Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter
An investigation led by ALW has been launched following complaints made by a number of people who have rescued animals from Many Tears, as well as from a former employee.
Some of the allegations relate to puppies reportedly being brought to Fishguard from Irish puppy farms to be rehoused and then sold by the rescue.
WalesOnline understands some of the allegations centre around vaccinations not being refrigerated, puppies not being separated while travelling from Fishguard to the rescue in Cefneithin, and that vaccination cards are being mass produced.
Allegations also include claims that some dogs were rehomed with undisclosed health conditions, with questions over the accuracy of medical records and pre-adoption checks, and concerns about how animals were matched with new homes.
A spokesperson for Many Tears said: “On Tuesday, March 10, representatives of Animal Licensing Wales visited the rescue to retrieve paperwork and records.
“No animals were removed from the premises during the visit and no concerns were raised about the condition or care of the animals on site.
“We are proud of the exceptional care our kennel staff provide, and our facilities ensure that our animals have enrichment and rehabilitation activities so that they thrive in our care.
“We are working closely with the authorities to ensure they have everything they need to complete the investigation process.”
Responding to the allegations surrounding the transport of animals to their facility, a spokesperson said: “Many Tears rescues and rehomes from several large breeding establishments, some of which are in Ireland, to offer ex-breeding dogs the chance to have a loving forever home.
“We also take some unsold puppies who have reached an age where they are no longer desirable to the public. We are entirely open about this activity and this information is available in the FAQ part of our website.
“Our vans are fully inspected and licensed for the transport of dogs and puppies. The puppies are transported in a separate part of the transport van to the adult dogs.”We take our responsibilities as an established and reputable animal rescue charity extremely seriously and strive to uphold the highest standards across everything we do.
“Therefore, we take these allegations regarding vaccination cards and the storage of vaccines extremely seriously and are currently investigating these claims.”
Animal Licensing Wales, which was established by the Welsh Government in 2020 to regulate animal activities, tackle illegal breeding and prosecute offenders, said it was unable to comment further because of the ongoing investigation.
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