Illegal puppy breeders targeted

Residents and businesses in the Welshpool area are being urged to speak up about illegal puppy breeding and report it anonymously to Crimestoppers.

The local Trading Standards department and the charity Crimestoppers have joined forces to provide a service that enables members of the public to anonymously provide valuable information that can help tackle the growing problem.

It is the latest issue that the two organisations are working on to encourage members of the public to provide information on concerns they might have, 100% anonymously.

Judith Parry, Chair of Trading Standards Wales, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Crimestoppers and giving members of the public a way to report these crimes anonymously.

“Unlicensed dog breeders do not have to follow the rules and will not be subjected to welfare inspections by the Local Authority. Such businesses are known as Illegal Breeders or Puppy Farmers.

“This leads to dogs being exploited by criminal gangs to make, and launder, money.”

Readers are urged to look out for the following signs when it comes to illegal puppy breeding:

• They may keep their puppies in awful conditions
• They may not ensure the animals welfare
• They may have poorly socialised dogs and puppies
• They may overbreed from their dogs

If you are concerned or suspicious of illegal dog breeding in the area, report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit 

http://crimestoppers-uk.org and tell them what you know. You’ll stay 100% anonymous.