MSP meets with animal charity to highlight illegal pup campaigns

Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford has highlighted the work in his constituency of the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Mr Crawford met officials of the animal charity in the Scottish Parliament last week.

It was explained that in 2017 in Stirling constituency, the SSPCA attended 1,503 incidents; re-homed 56 animals, re-united six animals with owners and had 2,746 active members.

Officials of the charity also visited primary schools to educate children about animal welfare, and had four inspectors and four rescue officers on duty at any one time.

Mr Crawford also backed the latest SSPCA campaign #SayNoToPuppyDealers.

It advises those wishing to obtain a puppy to first visit their nearest rehoming centre and only buy from reputable registered breeders.

Mr Crawford added: “The Scottish SPCA do tremendous work in the Stirling Constituency which makes a huge difference to the welfare of animals in our communities.

“I was delighted to meet with representatives and show my support for their campaign to say no to illegal puppy dealers.

“Puppy dealers cannot guarantee that the pup has stayed with its mother for the right amount of time, been socialised with people properly, or that they have provided basic needs for the pup.

“As distressing as these individual cases are, the only way we can stop it from happening is to cut off their business.

“I would encourage residents not to buy from someone they suspect is an illegal dealer and report any concerns about animal welfare to the Scottish SPCA. Reports to the Scottish SPCA can be made over the phone by calling 03000 999 999.”