Puppy trade crackdown sees 50 dogs seized while being transported to Scotland

Almost 50 puppies have been seized while being transported to Scotland in recent weeks as part of investigations into the low-welfare puppy trade.

The Scottish SPCA, which is now caring for the animals, is urging people who are considering buying a puppy to think carefully about where their new pet has come from.

Demand for puppies remains a key driver of the trade, with people responding to online adverts and purchasing pets without being able to properly establish where they have come from.

The charity’s advice for people considering buying a puppy is to do their research and never rush into a purchase.

It says potential buyers should not buy a puppy online or from anyone where they cannot verify where the dog has come from, and should always arrange to visit the breeder and see the puppies with their mother in the breeder’s home, rather than agreeing to meet somewhere else.

People should also check that the environment is clean, warm, dry, safe and suitable, ask to see relevant paperwork including vaccination and microchipping documentation, and take the time to ask questions.

The Scottish SPCA added that anyone who feels pressured to make a quick decision should walk away.

A spokesperson for the Scottish SPCA said: “Almost 50 puppies coming into our care in just a matter of weeks is a stark reminder that the low-welfare puppy trade is still a very real welfare issue in Scotland.

“Behind every puppy sold is a demand from someone looking to bring a new dog into their family. While there is a market for puppies that have been bred, transported or sold without proper regard for their welfare, people will continue to exploit that demand.

“We know that buying a puppy is a huge decision and that people can understandably be excited about welcoming a new member of the family. But it is incredibly important that potential buyers do not let that excitement override the need to ask questions and carry out proper checks.”

The seizure of the puppies has also placed sudden and significant pressure on the charity’s resources.

The spokesperson added: “The public has an important role to play in stopping this trade. Every purchase has consequences and choosing not to buy a puppy where its origins or welfare cannot be properly established will help reduce the demand that fuels this market.

“Sadly, when puppies are seized, they become our responsibility. We will do everything we can to give them the care they need, but that comes at a significant cost. We are incredibly grateful to Police Scotland and our other partners for their continued work with us to disrupt this trade and protect animals.”

The Scottish SPCA is urgently appealing for donations to help cover the unexpected costs of caring for the puppies.