500 signatures reached
To: Scottish Government, UK Government and European Parliament.
Introduce Stringent Legislation to Improve the sale of dogs and stop trafficking
We are writing to you as part of the Stranraer Against Animal Cruelty Pressure Group.
You may be aware of recent investigations into the trading of dogs and puppies in the UK – particularly ‘puppy farms’ where dogs are bred in terrible conditions, with no regard for their welfare and often succumbing to disease.
The Scottish SPCA has already highlighted the A77 and the two ports in Loch Ryan as the main link between Scotland and Northern Ireland, where the majority of these breeders are based.
In light of this evidence we recently formed as a group to raise awareness of this issue and campaign for better co-operation and legislation. We have since held meetings with local councillors, our local MP and local MSP; the SSPCA, Trading Standards and Ferry Operators to discuss ways to collectively tackle this worrying problem.
We realise that this issue is not confined to one area and that its solution rests on decisions being made locally, nationally and in Europe. Therefore we ask you to take the time to fill out our petition to demonstrate the huge opposition to these practices and the weight of support for a solution to be found.
As a result:
· We are calling on elected members across all political arenas to introduce stringent legislation to curtail the illegal trading and trafficking of dogs.
· We want to ensure that the future trade of dogs and puppies is managed legally and that a system is introduced which makes the animal more traceable - including their origin, ownership and medical history, as well as enhancing the current microchipping practices.
· We want all responsible bodies to work together so that adequate penalties are strengthened and enforced against illegal acts.
· We want greater public awareness of these issues with the, fostering greater vigilance when purchasing dogs and work to deter dogs being abandoned.
Your support is much appreciated in this matter.
Why is this important?
We want all responsible bodies to come together To raise the standards of dog breeding and sales domestically and across Europe - reducing 'puppy farming'.
To increase accountability of breeders and vendors to ensure that the highest welfare standards are employed and evidenced transparently.
To ensure more collective action is taken which reduces abandonment
To work towards a 'passport' system which records a dog's life - including birth details, medical history and ownership.
How it will be delivered
We will pass these signatures on to elected members, bodies such as the SSPCA, Trading Standards and all those concerned, demonstrating support for our cause.
