Local authority backs new rules to curb illegal dog and puppy farming

Councillors in Fife have welcomed new legislation designed to curb the recent increase in illegal dog and puppy sales.

Local agencies have expressed concern about the escalating number of breeders springing up in various locations, particularly during the pandemic.

There are also worries about the cost of these dogs and puppies which has soared in the last 18 months – often amounting to thousands of pounds for both pedigree and cross breeds.

Illegal puppy farming is big business across the UK and is estimated to be worth £13 million in Scotland alone, and the Scottish SPCA say puppies can often be treated like a commodity – bred in large numbers with little regard for animal welfare.

To alleviate the problem, Fife Council is supporting new regulations which will see more stringent licences issued for breeders following risk assessments, with those licences extended to cat and rabbit breeders, animal rehoming and animal welfare premises for the first time.

Dog breeders who have more than three litters in a year will also need licences – down from four litters previously.

Councillor Ross Vettraino, convener of Fife’s environment and protective services subcommittee, hopes the new system will help both reputable breeders and buyers alike.

“The changes support good breeders who go well above the minimum standards to care for and breed their animals,” he explained.

“The new rules will also help manage new breeders who are springing up to meet the spike in demand for dogs and puppies during the pandemic.

“This legislation will help regulate and scrutinise the conditions that these animals are being kept in.”

Mr Vettraino also urged people seeking a new puppy to use the SSPCA’s Assured Puppy Breeding Scheme which highlights trusted sellers.

SSPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “We want to encourage the public to buy puppies that are healthy and have grown up with their siblings and parents in a clean and safe environment.”

“Buy puppies that are healthy and grew up with siblings