Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford has urged local people to report any concerns to the Scottish SPCA if there are any worries about animal welfare when buying new puppies.
Having met with the Scottish SPCA in the Scottish Parliament this week, Mr Crawford has shown his support for their #SayNoToPuppyDealers campaign, which urges people to:
- Visit your local rehoming centre.
- Only go to reputable registered breeders.
- Always see the pup’s mum (and dad if possible).
- Don’t let someone bring the puppy to you.
- Always see the puppy’s living conditions.
- Obtain vaccination and microchip details.
- Ask lots of questions and do your own research.
The meeting with the Scottish SPCA also highlighted the work that they have undertaken in the Stirling Constituency in 2017. This included:
- 1,503 incidents attended.
- 56 animals rehomed.
- 6 animals reunited with owners.
- 2,746 active Scottish SPCA members.
- 5,729 children took part in free education programme.
- 36 primary schools visited by SSPCA team.
- 82% of primary schools benefitted from SSPCA programme.
- 4 inspectors on duty at any given time.
- 4 rescue officers on duty at any given time.
Commenting, Bruce Crawford said:
“The Scottish SPCA do tremendous work in the Stirling Constituency which makes a huge difference to the welfare of animals in our local communities. I was delighted to meet with representatives and show my support for their campaign to say no to illegal puppy dealers.
“Puppy dealers cannot guarantee that the pup has stayed with its mother for the right amount of time, been socialised with people properly, or that they have provided basic needs for the pup. As distressing as these individual cases are, the only way we can stop it from happening is to cut off their business. I would encourage residents not to buy from someone they suspect is an illegal dealer and report any concerns about animal welfare to the Scottish SPCA.
“Reports to the Scottish SPCA can be made over the phone by calling 03000 999 999.”