SOLIHULL MP Julian Knight has written to ministers to ask what action they’re taking to crack down on cruel puppy farms.
His actions follows the conviction of a borough puppy farmer who was found guilty of nine counts under the Animal Welfare Act for running an illegal farm.
In response George Eustice, a Minister of State at the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, outlined the tough new measures the Government is taking to monitor breeders, which they aim to have in place next year.
These include modernising the licencing regime for dog breeding and requiring anybody breeding and selling more than three puppies in a 12-month period to be properly licenced.
It will also be illegal to sell puppies younger than eight weeks old, imposing tougher welfare standards on licenced breeders, and requiring all sellers to include their licence number on all advertising.
In response to the news, Julian Knight said: “I’m very pleased to see the Government taking such swift and decisive action to make sure our animal welfare protections are fit for purpose.
“Irresponsible puppy farmers are responsible for a huge about of animal suffering, as well as great distress and inconvenience to families who buy unhealthy pets.
“These new rules are good news for legitimate breeders, as they will help conscientious consumers steer clear of unscrupulous dealers and buy responsibly.”
