Charities have come together to fight against the illegal puppy trade in Scotland

Animal charities have joined forces in a bid to defeat puppy farming in Scotland.

The Scottish SPCA, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, RSPCA, Battersea, Dogs Trust, Trading Standards Scotland, Blue Cross, OneKind, BSAVA, Edinburgh University and the Scottish Government have launched a new campaign to tackle the illicit sale of dogs.

A new website has been created as part of the project, which aims to raise awareness about the awful conditions that animals are often kept in.

The illegal trade of dogs is said to be worth £13 million a year in Scotland, with dogs sold by unregistered breeders prone to genetic disorders and infectious diseases.

“The growing illegal trade is, put simply, organised crime and at present there is little deterrent,” said SSPCA chief executive Kirsteen Campbell.

“While we already work with Scottish Government and our partners to improve animal welfare legislation we are conscious that demand for pups is growing and we must raise more awareness of the damaging effects of puppy farming to prevent people inadvertently funding the trade.

“Puppy farming has been a priority issue for us and our partners for quite some time. Individually we have been making some progress, but the industry has grown exponentially and it’s clear that a unified approach is the only way forward.”

The new site will give buyers tips on where to buy a puppy, how to report concerns about dealers and how to spot puppy dealers. Dog owners are also being asked to sign a pledge to say no to puppy farming.

Environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “Those involved in puppy dealing or illegal breeding can earn thousands of pounds from a single litter but while they count their cash, the dogs which they are exploiting inevitably suffer.

“The Scottish SPCA’s campaign has my full support. I urge anyone planning to buy a puppy to follow the available guidance.”