Tough New Legal Crackdown on Puppy Smuggling Moves a Step Closer
- 29 November 2024
- Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, GOV.UK
New measures to tackle the illegal puppy smuggling trade have moved a step closer, with the introduction of a new Bill in Parliament today.
The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will make it an offence to import, export or sell a puppy under 6 months old, unless they have been vaccinated against rabies and have a pet passport.
The new law will also make it easier for the authorities to seize puppies that have been illegally imported or sold, and to prosecute those responsible.
Currently, there is no legal requirement for puppies to be vaccinated against rabies before they are imported into the UK. As a result, there is a significant risk that illegally imported puppies could bring rabies into the country.
Rabies is a deadly disease that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. It is spread through the saliva of infected animals, and can cause paralysis and death.
The new law will help to protect the UK from the risk of rabies, as well as other diseases that can be transmitted through puppy smuggling.
Environment Secretary George Eustice said:
“Puppy smuggling is a cruel and illegal trade that puts the health of our animals and the public at risk.
“This new law will make it easier for the authorities to crack down on puppy smuggling and to protect the welfare of puppies.”
The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill is expected to become law in early 2025.
Additional Information
- The new law will apply to all puppies under 6 months old, regardless of their breed.
- Puppies that are imported into the UK from an EU country must have a pet passport that shows that they have been vaccinated against rabies.
- Puppies that are imported into the UK from a non-EU country must have a third-party rabies vaccination certificate.
- The new law will also make it an offence to sell a puppy that has not been vaccinated against rabies.
Penalties
Anyone who is found guilty of importing, exporting or selling a puppy that has not been vaccinated against rabies could be fined up to £5,000 or imprisoned for up to 6 months.
How to Report Puppy Smuggling
If you suspect that someone is involved in puppy smuggling, you can report it to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 or to Defra on 03459 33 55 77.
Tough new legal crackdown on puppy smuggling moves a step closer
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