Bury council warn of crack down on the illegal puppy trade

High demand for pets during lockdown has seen puppy prices rise dramatically and encouraged illegal traders to scale up their activities.

Bury Public Protection Service is warning residents to stop and think if they want to buy a puppy to keep them company during the continued lockdown.

Many illegally bred puppies are sold online through social media or small ad sites. It is estimated that 40% of them die before their fifth birthday while 15% get sick or die in the first year.

Councillor Jane Black, executive member for the cultural economy said: "During the current Covid-19 pandemic, regrettably nationwide there have been reports of an increase in illegal puppy sales and trading.

“Unfortunately, puppies can be advertised as home bred when in reality, they have been either trafficked illegally from abroad or are being brought from abroad with what looks like legitimate paperwork. The sad fact is the puppies are much younger than the accompanying paperwork and may have been subjected to traumatic travel conditions. She added “puppy farms breed misery and public demand is fuelling the trade, which is being facilitated through online adverts and sellers.”

Following 2 recent complaints in as many months, Bury Council is concerned that the desire to buy a puppy during lockdown for residents who are furloughed or working from home may result in buyers not doing their research properly.

Following the introduction of Lucy’s Law last year, it is illegal to sell puppies and kittens under 6 months old unless the seller: has bred the puppy or kitten themselves.

There are key checks that can help ensure you are buying safely - these include meeting the puppy's mother with her litter when restrictions allow, making inquiries about the breeder and ensuring all the correct paperwork is in place. Also checking guidance on reputable websites such as the RSPA.“

ENDS

Press release issued: 3 February 2021.