An end to puppy farming

Liberal Democrat Defra Spokesperson, Baroness Parminter, will today challenge the government to end puppy farming in the UK through an Oral Question in the House of Lords.

Puppy farming is the unlicensed breeding of dogs in sometimes squalid conditions that can have a hugely damaging impact on the health of puppies.

The dogs are often neglected because they are bred in large numbers and not given the attention, food or vaccinations they need.

Unlicensed dog breeding is rife in the UK with only 1 in 10 puppies bred by licenced breeders.

Local authorities are responsible for issuing licenses - but shockingly a third of councils have issued no licences for dog breeding.

Alongside the cruelty inflicted upon dogs there is also a lack of protection for consumers. Dog owners whose pets become ill or die soon after being bought due to the neglect of the breeder have very little legal recourse.

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Defra, Kate Parminter said:

"This a huge problem in the UK and must be tackled urgently. The lack of regulation gives a free rein to criminals seeking to exploit puppies for financial gain, with no concern for animal welfare.

"Pet-owners who buy puppies from unlicensed dog breeders do not know how well their dog has been treated and do not have consumer protections. There is more protection for buying a fridge than a puppy - this is scandalous.

"The law must change to enforce licences for dog breeding so that both puppies and their owners have the protection they deserve. Criminals who farm puppies illegally must face financial penalties and be banned from trading."