DROITWICH’S MP has backed a new piece of proposed legislation to prevent immoral breeders and traders from exploiting loopholes when illegally smuggling animals into the UK.
Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston MP supported the Animal Welfare (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill when it was brought before parliament by North Devon MP Selaine Saxby on Friday, March 15.
Under the bill, people selling pets would be banned from importing puppies under six months old, while heavily pregnant dogs would also not be allowed to travel.
‘Mutilated’ animals, such as puppies with cropped ears, would also be stopped. The bill also covers the importation of cats and ferrets into the country.
Ms Saxby prefaced her Private Members Bill by referencing a huge surge in puppy smuggling during the Covid pandemic as owners struggled to find the puppies they wanted.
“I am glad the Government is supporting this vital Bill and committed to its swift passage to safeguard the welfare of thousands of puppies, dogs, cats and ferrets that come into Great Britain from overseas each year,” she said.
“I would like to thank the tireless campaigning from pet charities who have shared their views about this Bill. I hope they are reassured by the measures outlined in the Bill which will stop this cruel trade by closing loopholes exploited by unscrupulous commercial traders. We really are a nation of pet lovers, and this legislation will ensure the UK is leading the world when it comes to animal welfare.”
Mr Huddleston said he would be backing Selaine’s bill and said it would bring peace of mind to families looking for a new pet.
“It is easy to see how many people across our constituency and the country love their pets and the special place they hold in families’ hearts. I have had countless correspondence from constituents who supported this Bill and wanted it implemented.
“That’s why this Bill is so important – not just to stop criminal gangs profiting from the suffering of young animals – but to end the pain loving families feel when their beloved pet is found to be ill or in pain due to the way it was raised and brought into the country,” said Mr Huddleston.