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Posted: 12th December 2024

Taskforce urges public to help stop illegal puppy trade
The 24 puppies were found as part of a cross-border rescue operation.
Scottish SPCA recently rescued 24 puppies from a smuggling operation.

A multi-agency taskforce has called on members of the public to help combat illegal puppy trading in the UK and Ireland.

The Pet Trade Taskforce, led by the Scottish SPCA, will see authorities working across borders to stop puppies being smuggled in poor conditions.

It follows the rescue of 24 puppies from under a lorry at a ferry port, where they were found in cardboard boxes without water or bedding. The lorry driver has received a two-year disqualification order from dealing with animals and a fine for £400.

The rescue operation was the result of collaboration between Police Scotland and the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA). This has inspired a cross-border approach to tackling puppy smuggling.

The Pet Trade Taskforce includes many organisations, such as the RSPCA, USPCA, ISPCA and the PDSA. It also has the support of APHA, HMRC and the Scottish and Welsh governments.

Members of the public are also being urged to do their part by staying aware of the signs of disreputable breeders.

It is advised that puppies are not bought online or from someone who cannot verify where the dog is coming from. Breeders should also be researched thoroughly, as unauthorised breeding can significantly impact the animal’s welfare.

Laura McIntyre, head of rescue and prevention at the Scottish SPCA, 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.”

Detective superintendent Steve 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."

If a seller is acting suspiciously, they should be reported to Scottish SPCA (Scotland) or RSPCA (England or Wales). Other suspicions about illegal puppy trading can also be reported Police Scotland on 101.

Image © Scottish SPCA



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