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Puppy farming calls on the rise, warns charity
RSPCA reports 21 per cent increase in calls

Calls to the RSPCA regarding puppy farming and trafficking have risen by 21 per cent from the beginning of 2013 to November this year.

Ian Briggs, chief inspector for the RSPCA's special operation unit, said: “The percentage rise in the calls we received since January is extremely worrying.

“People are making thousands of pounds off the back of breeding and importing sick puppies. There are no two ways about it – it is organised animal crime. While people keep buying puppies from these people, they will keep selling them.”

From January to November this year, the charity says it has received 2,034 calls relating to puppy farming and trafficking, compared to 1,678 throughout 2012.

Greater Manchester is reported to have seen by far the largest increase in calls, with a 90 per cent increase compared to last year. In total, 217 calls were received between January and November 2013, compared to 114 in the whole of last year.

The charity is urging potential owners to avoid buying from puppy farms and using sources such as the internet and classified ads to find a new pet. Chief inspector Briggs said: “Puppies are cute and it can be tempting to make a quick decision to buy one as a gift for a loved one or a family member.

“However, while someone might think they’re buying the perfect present when they pay for a puppy, the recipient might not be so grateful if they’re sat in a vet’s waiting room on Christmas Day with a critically ill dog.”

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."