France
New Penalties Introduced For Illegal Dog & Cat Sales
France has introduced new sanctions aimed at strengthening controls on the sale of dogs and cats. A decree published in August creates specific penalties for pet shops and other establishments that illegally sell or transfer dogs and cats, with fines of up to €1,500 for certain offences. The measures reinforce existing French restrictions which already prohibit the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops.
Scotland
Almost 50 Puppies Seized Amid Concerns Over Low-Welfare Puppy Trade
Almost 50 puppies have been seized during recent investigations into the low welfare puppy trade in Scotland. The Scottish SPCA says the puppies were intercepted while being brought into the country and has warned that illegal and irresponsible puppy trading continues to create serious welfare risks for young dogs.
Germany
Four Dachshund Puppies Discovered Hidden Under Luggage
German customs officers have discovered four young dachshund puppies hidden beneath luggage inside a Romanian registered vehicle travelling through Germany. The puppies were reportedly being transported without food or water and appeared weak and tired when discovered. Officials also identified irregularities in their documentation. Authorities say it was the third case involving illegally transported puppies intercepted by customs in the Braunschweig area this year.
Germany
Counterfeit Rabies Vaccination Documents Confirmed Following Dog’s Death
An investigation into a dog that died from rabies in Germany has confirmed that vaccine stickers contained in the animal’s vaccination certificate were counterfeit. The dog had been commercially imported from Russia. Forensic examination of the documentation followed the rabies case in Rhineland-Palatinate, with European veterinary authorities warning that fraudulent vaccination records and non compliant animal movements can undermine disease control measures.
UK
Unlicensed French Bulldog Breeder Prosecuted Over Welfare & Fraud Offences
A Cheltenham resident has been prosecuted following an investigation into the unlicensed breeding and sale of French Bulldogs. The case included charges relating to unnecessary suffering and misleading advertising. One puppy sold to a member of the public was subsequently found to have birth defects and Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. The breeder was sentenced to an 18 month community order and ordered to contribute towards prosecution costs.
UK
Dog & Three Cats Removed Following Animal Welfare Investigation
A dog and three cats were among animals removed from a property in Gloucestershire following an animal welfare investigation. Council officers found poor hygiene and accumulated waste, with animals being kept in conditions consistent with prolonged neglect. The defendant pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the animals’ needs and was given a suspended prison sentence and a five year ban on keeping animals.