THE CRUEL puppy smuggling trade would finally be banned under a plan being pushed by a Tory MP.
Selaine Saxby says legal loopholes must be closed to stop criminals importing trendy dogs and cats in a poor condition.
Pet sellers would be banned from importing puppies and kittens under six months, according to her proposal. And heavily pregnant cats and dogs would not be allowed to travel.
It would also stop the import of pets that have undergone “mutilations” that are illegal in the UK. This includes dogs with cropped ears and cats that have had their claws removed.
The MP for North Devon told the Sun on Sunday: “Puppy smugglers are criminals and they are filling a gap.
“They pull on our heartstrings by offering you the breed that has been popular that you haven’t been able to find.
“But it’s heart-breaking if you do bring a young pet into your family and find they are harbouring a medical condition.”
Her Private Members’ Bill will have its second reading in the Commons on Friday.
Ms Saxby said that the “huge” surge in puppy smuggling started during the pandemic and demand still remains.
Gangs use the pet travel scheme – aimed at making travel with pets cheap and convenient for owners – to get animals into the UK.
Last year Rishi Sunak’s government dropped the Kept Animals Bill that would have cracked down on puppy smuggling due fears they would be forced into a vote on hunting.
Sources said Environment Secretary Steve Barclay is a big dog lover and is concerned about the harm to animals and upset to pet owners caused by this cruel trade.
The government will set out its position on Friday.
