Michael Gove announces crackdown on puppy and kitten farming
2 min read
Pet shops will be banned from selling puppies and kittens in England under Government plans to end the "miserable" pet farming trade.
Environment Secretary Michael Gove said people wanting to adopt pets less than six months old will have to go to the breeder or a rescue centre instead of a third party dealer.
The plan - which will go to consultation - aims to crack down on animal dealers who put profits above animal welfare.
Mass-breeders who keep animals in dirty and cramped conditions and force some to become pregnant numerous times have been exposed in recent years.
Mr Gove said: "People who have a complete disregard for pet welfare will no longer be able to profit from this miserable trade."
He told Sky News: "What we want to do is to try to make sure that anyone who has a pet will know that that puppy has been brought up in the right circumstances.”
The move heralds a victory for the ‘Lucy’s Law’ campaign - named after a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel which was badly treated in the puppy farming industry.
The Dogs Trust welcomed the ban but said extra measures were needed such as the regulation of re-homing organisations.
British Veterinary Association president John Fishwick also welcomed the move but urged the Government to protect against "unintended consequences" that could lead to a black market in pets.
Queen guitarist and animal rights campaigner Brian May said it was a “day for celebration”.
A ban on third parties selling dogs and cats less than eight weeks old is already coming into force on 1 October.
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