Now a multi-agency, Scottish SPCA-led taskforce against the illegal and illicit puppy trade has been set up with partners across the UK, Ireland and Northern Ireland to combat this activity and they are calling on the public to help.
This year saw 24 puppies rescued, with the help of Police Scotland and the USPCA, from under a lorry after being confined in cardboard boxes, without water or suitable bedding at a ferry port coming from Northern Ireland.
As a result of the investigation into this incident, this month a female lorry driver from County Monaghan in Ireland received a two-year disqualification order from transporting or dealing with animals.
She was also fined £400 after pleading guilty at Stranraer Sheriff Court to a breach of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, Section 24.
This is just one example of how working together across borders can stop puppies from being smuggled.
Scottish SPCA Head of Rescue and Prevention Laura McIntyre, said, “Although the low-welfare trade in puppies slowed due to the ending of lockdown and the cost-of-living crisis, we know that unscrupulous breeders are still out there targeting unsuspecting members of the public.
“We lead a multi-agency taskforce and our special investigations unit undertakes intelligence-led missions to target those involved with the illicit puppy trade.“Smuggled pups often look fine when they are purchased, but problems will begin to show at a later stage.
“Our message to the general public is do not buy online or from someone where it is impossible to verify where the dog is actually coming from. The only way this will disappear, and people stop profiteering at the expense of these dogs, is if the public demand it stops.
“Anyone considering buying a puppy should research the potential breeder carefully, as unauthorised breeding can have a significant impact on the welfare of all dogs involved.
“If you have purchased a puppy who shows any signs of illness or distress please take them to a vet immediately.”
Detective Superintendent Steven Elliot of Police Scotland said: “We are committed to working with the SSPCA Pet Trade Taskforce and our partners to target those involved in the illicit puppy trade.
“These criminals are motivated by financial gain, with little or no regard for the animal’s welfare.
“We urge anyone considering buying a puppy to do so from a reputable breeder and to report any suspicions around illegal puppy trading to Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”
Members of the Pet Trade Taskforce include the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), The Ulster Society for the Prevention Cruelty to Animals (USPCA), Police Scotland, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA Northern Ireland), World Horse Welfare, The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA), The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM Irish Government), Scottish Government, Welsh Government and His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
If you suspect the seller is acting suspiciously, contact SSPCA (Scotland) or RSPCA (England and Wales)
If you witness suspicious activity at Belfast or Larne ports, please contact a member of staff immediately so that Department of Agriculture, Rural Affairs and the Environment (DAERA) staff can investigate. If you have information regarding either potential offences, regarding the illegal breeding or transportation of dogs in Northern Ireland, please contact the relevant organisation, details of which can be found here. You can also report any suspicious activity anonymously to [email protected] and any information will be passed to the relevant enforcement agency. Please note, this mailbox is operational during normal office hours only.
Further advice on what to look for when buying a puppy here
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