There’s more demand than ever for dogs and cats. At the same time, social media and online platforms have made the process of buying and selling animals much easier. Sadly, this has led to a growing number of breeders putting profits over animal health and welfare.
Nora, Mave, Orla, Frida and Marge were brought to our Old Windsor centre after being found left in a field. Our team could see the 5 female dogs had each given birth to several litters. Their nervous nature and swollen teats were typical of dogs used for puppy farm breeding.
Nora, Mave, Orla, Frida and Marge were in terrible condition. Their fur was heavily matted and overgrown, and they had problems with their ears and teeth.
Our team thought it was likely that they didn’t have much experience of the world or humans at all. They were very worried, and didn’t know basic training – like housetraining and walking on a lead. And they were frightened by ordinary household noises like hoovers and TVs.
We gave the girls some much-needed care and attention, and they started to adapt to their new lives. Having most likely been around lots of dogs before they came to us, they were happiest around other canine companions, often looking to them for reassurance. So, we found the girls new homes with dogs that could show them how to be household pets, and help them grow in confidence.
How poor breeding harms dogs and cats
Dogs and cats that are bred with little thought for their welfare don’t have a fair chance in life – whether they’re born from poor breeding or used for breeding themselves.
They’re often treated badly by their breeder. They’re more likely to suffer with health issues, like diseases and inherited conditions. And they’re not socialised properly, so they can find life as pet difficult.
Later down the line, they’re more likely to be given to rescues like Battersea. This could be because their owner can’t give them the care they need. Or – like in Nora, Mave, Orla, Frida and Marge’s case – it could be because their breeder gives them away when they no longer have value to them.
How you can help
We're pushing for the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill, as promised in Labour’s general election manifesto. This would help prevent the smuggling of puppies, kittens and animals in late-stage pregnancy.
We’re working with the government and the animal welfare sector to improve regulations for breeding dogs, and to introduce regulations for breeding cats.
We also want to give the public the information they need to recognise good breeding, and to report low welfare breeders.
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