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Public urged to be wary of puppy farmers as travel restrictions ease
"It's crucial that the general public is clear on how to responsibly buy a puppy, as restrictions ease." Dr Ed Hayes.

Deceitful sellers could 'exploit confusion around pandemic restrictions' says Kennel Club.

The Kennel Club is warning potential pet owners to be wary of puppy farmers as domestic travel restrictions are relaxed across the UK.

Animal welfare organisations have always encouraged puppy buyers to avoid purchasing a dog if the seller offers to deliver it, as this is often a sign that the seller is attempting to hide the poor conditions that the animal is being kept in.

However, as people across the country were instructed to stay at home during the pandemic, emergency guidance allowed breeders to deliver puppies to their new homes in certain situations.

As travel rules are now easing across Great Britain, the Kennel Club has issued a warning around ongoing deliveries and urges potential buyers to collect their puppy themselves.

Dr Ed Hayes, head of policy and public affairs at The Kennel Club, said: “Following a year of confusing and difficult COVID-19 rules for breeders, rescue organisations and potential new owners – alongside a huge demand for dogs – it’s crucial that the general public is clear on how to responsibly buy a puppy, as restrictions ease.”

“If you’re buying a puppy which you’ve found online, travel restrictions across Great Britain now allow you to follow usual responsible puppy buying advice: Do not agree to have your puppy delivered to you or meet half-way. Ask for more than one virtual viewing to see where puppies have been brought up and the litter interacting with mum. Following relevant Covid guidelines, meet the breeder, puppies and mum outdoors ahead of purchase.”

He continued: “Despite Government’s recent crack-down on third-party sales via Lucy’s Law, puppy farmers can still sell directly to the public online, and we have no doubt that they will exploit confusion around pandemic restrictions and the fact that COVID-19 guidance at one point allowed puppy deliveries.”

The organisation is urging the public to stay up-to-date on COVID-19 guidance within their area and to follow its guidance for puppy buyers.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.