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Cracking down on unlicensed dog breeding in East Suffolk
Cracking down on unlicensed dog breeding in East Suffolk
East Suffolk residents are urged to carry out thorough checks when buying a puppy, following investigations into illegal dog breeding in the district.
On Thursday 30 September, officers from East Suffolk Council’s Environmental Protection team exercised two warrants at addresses in Leiston in connection with unlicensed, and therefore illegal, dog breeding and/or sales of puppies under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Supported by Suffolk Police, arrests were made, and evidence gathered. These actions follow many months of investigation, which is hoped will identify other illegal sites and practices in the area.
Puppy farming is a cruel practice which overbreeds from bitches, often in poor conditions and without the necessary care. By selling puppies from fake show homes, buyers are duped into thinking that puppies had a good start in life and will be healthy. The trade is often connected to organised crime.
Cllr James Mallinder, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for the Environment said: “Our officers are experts in animal licensing matters and will continue to work with Suffolk Police and local veterinary practices to shut down illegal and cruel activities like this when they are found in our area. Animal welfare is an important priority at East Suffolk and we also ask residents to check and check again that when purchasing a puppy, it’s from a reputable breeder.”
If you think you may have purchased a puppy from an illegal seller, please call 0333 016 2000 to pass on information in confidence.
Anyone selling puppies as a business must have a breeder’s licence – always ask to see this.
Check our list of licensed breeders.
Advice from the RSPCA on finding on a good puppy breeder.
In doubt, please email ep@eastsuffolk.gov.uk