Families are being urged not to buy puppies online as Christmas presents amid fears that money exchanged may be used by criminal gangs. The warning comes as illegally-bred puppies sold on social media have been identified by prosecutors as a source of revenue for organised crime groups.
The market in Scotland last year was estimated to be worth £13 million, with price tags for some designer breeds reaching as high as £3,000. Kenny Donnelly, deputy crown agent for specialist casework at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said illegal puppy-farming has grown significantly among serious organised crime gangs as a way of raising finance.
“It plays a part in financing crime in Scotland. These gangs are involved in the distribution of illegal drugs and money laundering,” Donnelly said. “Therefore, it is critically important that anyone considering buying a puppy is aware of the pitfalls in respect of not buying from legitimate dog breeders and unintentionally supporting this cruel and illegal trade.”
So far this year, the Scottish SPCA has received 336 calls in connection with suspected puppy farms and puppy breeding. Chief Supt Mike Flynn said that although the low-welfare trade has slowed due to the end of lockdown and the cost of living crisis, unscrupulous breeders are still targeting unsuspecting members of the public. “Trafficked pups often look fine when purchased, but problems will begin to show at a later stage,” he added.
Det Ch Sup Dave Ferry of Police Scotland said organised criminals will take every opportunity to exploit people for profit, and dog breeding is not immune. He urged anyone considering buying a puppy to research the potential breeder carefully, as unauthorised breeding can have a significant impact on the welfare of dogs.
