Ministers urged to ban bad breeders

Scottish ministers have been urged to ban dodgy puppy breeders by a leading animal charity.

The Scottish SPCA also welcomed a UK Government ban on third-party puppy and kitten sales in England.

The regulation, unveiled by Michael Gove, means anyone wanting to buy or home a puppy or kitten will have to deal directly with the breeder or re-homing centre.

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “We welcome the UK Government’s commitment to ban third-party pet sales in England which aims to protect young, vulnerable animals and stop unscrupulous breeders. Any legislation that would enforce the monitoring of the sale of any animals is a positive step in the right direction.

“However, if this change in law is to be successful, any potential loopholes must be considered and closed off, including the regulation of re-homing organisations and animal sanctuaries.

“The Scottish Government has issued a consultation to amend the licensing of dog, cat and rabbit breeding activities. We feel that the current regulations in Scotland are outdated and that more can be done to help protect animal welfare.”

The Scottish SPCA has launched a campaign with other animal charities to call for a clampdown.

Mr Flynn said: “Over the past year we have been raising awareness of the barbaric puppy trade in Scotland through our #SayNoToPuppyDealers campaign.

“We have been very vocal about this trade and we have received great cross party support. We hope that the proposed Bills put forward by MSPs will help end this cruel industry.”