Michael Morley, 37, Stephen Parkin, 55, Edward Smith, 62, Julie Smith, 59, and Patrick Smith, 58, of White House Farm in Redbourn, were arrested after numerous animals had to be rescued by the RSPCA.
Mr Morley, appeared on 18 counts of ‘causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal’, namely dogs, and for not ‘upholding a duty of person responsible for animal to ensure welfare’.
Mr Parkin appeared on the same two charges in relation to horses and goats. Edward Smith appeared on these charges in relation to goats, horses and dogs, as did Julie and Patrick Smith.
They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The RSPCA rescued 50 terriers, Labradors and spaniels from the farm, on Hemel Hempstead Road, in October last year after a concerned member of the public contacted the RSPCA.
The trial is due to take place in February.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here