Christmas warning over crime gang links to online puppy sales

Families are being urged not buy puppies online as Christmas presents amid fears money exchanged may be used by criminal gangs.

The warning comes as illegally-bred puppies sold on social media were identified by prosecutors as a source of revenue for organised crime gangs.

The market in Scotland last year was estimated to be worth £13m.

And price tags for some designer breeds of dog can reach as high as £3,000.

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Kenny Donnelly, deputy crown agent for specialist casework at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said: "Illegal puppy-farming has grown significantly among serious organised crime gangs as a way of raising finance.

"It plays a part in financing crime in Scotland. These gangs are involved in the distribution of illegal drugs and money laundering.

"Therefore, it is critically important that anyone considering buying a puppy is aware of the pitfalls in respect of not buying from legitimate dog breeders and unintentionally supporting this cruel and illegal trade which exploits pets and causes them terrible suffering."

So far this year, the Scottish SPCA animal welfare charity has received 336 calls in connection with suspected puppy farms and puppy breeding.

It said many animals later suffer severe health problems and either cost their owners huge vet bills or are too ill to survive their first few months.

Scottish SPCA Chief Supt Mike Flynn said: "Although the low-welfare trade in puppies has slowed due to the ending of lockdown and the cost of living crisis, we know that unscrupulous breeders are still out there targeting unsuspecting members of the public.

"Trafficked pups often look fine when they are purchased, but problems will begin to show at a later stage.

"Our message to the general public remains the same - do not buy online or from someone where it is impossible to verify where the dog is actually coming from.

"The only way this will disappear, and people stop profiteering at the expense of these dogs, is if the public demand it stops."

Det Ch Sup Dave Ferry, of Police Scotland, added: "We know organised criminals will take every opportunity to exploit people to make profit from illicit activities, and dog breeding is not immune.

"Anyone considering buying a puppy should research the potential breeder carefully, as unauthorised breeding can have a significant impact on the welfare of dogs."