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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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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.