The RSPCA, supported by multiple animal welfare charities and Nottinghamshire Police, rescued over 450 severely neglected animals from Croftfield Farm in Skegby, Nottinghamshire, in November 2023. The animals, including dogs, horses, donkeys, guinea pigs, birds, and exotic species, were found living in appalling conditions with little to no veterinary care, leading to some being euthanized to end their suffering. The farm owner, Lee Hayes, was sentenced to 12 months in prison and banned from keeping animals for life after pleading guilty to 25 animal welfare offences, while his girlfriend received a suspended sentence and a five-year ban on keeping dogs.

The rescue operation, codenamed Operation Teal, revealed widespread neglect such as unsanitary living spaces, untreated injuries, malnutrition, and overcrowding. Despite prior warnings and visits from charities, Hayes failed to improve conditions, resulting in a large-scale legal case and significant costs awarded to the RSPCA. Many rescued animals have since been treated and rehomed, with sanctuaries providing long-term care for those unable to be rehomed. The case highlights the severe consequences of animal neglect and the importance of multi-agency cooperation in animal welfare enforcement.