The RSPCA has weighed in on the wider reality of the puppy trade after a News & Star report highlighted the shocking case of 27 abandoned puppies taken in by a Carlisle charity.
The puppies, many of whom were malnourished and mangy, were believed to have been discarded by a ‘puppy farmer’ after failing to sell.
The matter has reignited concerns about illegal puppy farming and unlicensed breeders.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “Sadly, this is what happens when animals’ welfare is placed second to profit.
“We saw a significant surge in dog ownership during lockdown, and some breeders viewed this as an opportunity to cash in.
“When puppies fail to sell, we see heartbreaking cases like this.”
The RSPCA urged people to adopt rather than buy: “Rescue centres have hundreds of dogs of all breeds and ages waiting for homes.
“If you are considering buying, always ensure you visit the puppy at home with its mother and use The Puppy Contract to safeguard the process.”
The Puppy Contract is a free toolkit to help people buy and breed puppies responsibly.
It is a website that guides people through the process of buying a puppy.
Cumberland Council, the authority within which is the dog warden, responsible for strays and their fate, echoed the RSPCA's message.
A council spokesperson said: “Residents must ensure they only buy from licensed breeders, who can provide a licence certificate, proof of whelping, and veterinary records.
“Buyers should be wary of online adverts or any breeder unwilling to provide this information.”
Anyone uncertain about a breeder’s legitimacy should contact the council’s licensing team for verification.
Cumbria Constabulary said: "We would always encourage responsible dog purchasing.
"We would suggest people looking for a dog seek out those already needing new homes at animal rescue centres.
"If people want new puppies, then there is really good advice available on the Kennel Club, RSPCA and Blue Cross websites covering what to look out for and what to ask.
"We would direct people to reputable breeders.
"As a minimum, sellers should be willing to answer questions on the parent animals and show both, if asked.
"Buyers should also feel confident enquiring about the medical history of parents and other litters - and what vaccinations these puppies have received.
"Genuine sellers and reputable breeders won’t mind being asked questions and will be grateful that the prospective buyer is responsible.
"Any concerns about puppies advertised for sale which could suggest farmed puppies can be reported to police, Crimestoppers or the RSPCA.
"Warning signs are generic photos, vague descriptions and a lack of paperwork to accompany claims such as microchips and vaccinations."
The issue of pet abandonment continues to rise nationwide.
The RSPCA reported a 51 per cent increase in abandonment cases during the winter months over recent years, with 152 reports filed in Cumbria alone in 2023.
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The recent incident in Carlisle has also highlighted the vital role of foster carers in helping overwhelmed animal charities.
The Oak Tree Animals' Charity continues to call for foster families to step forward. Fostering, even for short periods, can help rehabilitate animals and prepare them for permanent homes.
For more information on fostering or reporting concerns about dog breeders, contact Oak Tree Animals' Charity, Cumberland Council, or the RSPCA.
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