Mark has backed the Government’s proposals to crack down on puppy smuggling and banning the import of puppies with docked tails and cropped ears.
Each year thousands of new puppies throughout the UK are imported into the UK which do not meet the UK’s standards on animal welfare. The number of new puppies that didn’t meet these rules last year rose by 160%.
The Government has drawn up plans to crack down on the cruel practice in order to protect dogs entering the UK. The proposals would raise the minimum age at which a dog can be imported into the UK from 15 weeks old to 6 months, and banning the import of puppies with docked tails and cropped ears.
New laws would also limit the import of dogs that are heavily pregnant to further deter criminal gangs looking to make a quick payday from the smuggling trade.
The number of dogs imported into the UK last year totalled 66,000 but there are real concerns about low welfare standards in the industry.
Backing the plans, Mark commented:
“Puppy smuggling is an awful business and there are so often issues around the welfare of dogs brought into the country.
“The Government’s plans to crack down on this horrific practice will go a long way in helping to ensure fewer puppies have to go through this incredibly stressful and horrible treatment.
“It’s also reassuring to hear that the plans include proposals to crack down on the inhumane process of docking tails and cropping ears. We’re a nation of animal lovers and so it’s only right that we do all we can to ensure they have the highest welfare standards in the world.
“I’m proud to be part of a Government that is pushing the UK to be a world leader on animal welfare standards and I stand ready to back these proposals when the time comes.”
