The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after the discovery of four dead puppies in Dumfries and Galloway, suspected to be victims of the puppy farming industry.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted on 18 November when a lorry driver found the animals in a field next to a layby on the A77 between Cairnryan and Ballantrae.
An undercover officer said, “The A77 is the main link between Scotland and Northern Ireland, which is where the majority of puppy farm suppliers are based. The central belt of Scotland is also where the majority of potential customers are.
“These pups were between 6 and 12 weeks old and were possibly a spaniel breed.
“We suspect they were part of a shipment from Northern Ireland and tragically died during the ferry journey before being callously dumped.
We are currently awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death.
“Anyone with information is being urged to contact our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.”
The Scottish SPCA is urging people to be vigilant if buying a puppy this festive season. The undercover officer added, “Trading puppies from puppy farms is an abhorrent practice and those involved have no regard for the welfare of the animals involved.
“We are very concerned that many people will be unwittingly supporting the puppy farming industry this Christmas by buying from unscrupulous breeders and sellers.
“The pups are often bred and kept in poor conditions, resulting in disease and infection.
“While the puppy may appear fine when purchased, problems usually begin to show shortly afterwards, by which point money has already exchanged hands and the seller is long gone.
“Anyone buying a puppy is strongly urged to avoid buying from free websites and should only go to reputable breeders. They should always view the mother of any pups advertised and make sure they see the environment the animals are kept in. “No-one should ever allow a seller to deliver a puppy to them at home or agree to carry out the transaction in a public place such as a car park.
“All buyers should ask for a copy of the puppy’s veterinary records, including its vaccination and health check history, as well as a receipt complete with the seller’s contact details.
“Those who would like further guidance on buying a puppy can contact us for more information on 03000 999 999.”
Image attached credited Scottish SPCA. Warning, image may cause distress.
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