Wayne David, Labour MP for Caerphilly, has joined with other Members of Parliament to sign an open letter calling for better laws to tackle puppy smuggling and improve animal welfare.

The letter, organised by the Dogs Trust, encourages the UK Conservative Government to return the Kept Animals Bill to Parliament as soon as possible. This is because there are provisions in the Bill which would restrict movement of pregnant dogs and puppies, and tackle puppy smuggling gangs. This is an important issue, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

The Dogs Trust have seen “an unprecedented increase” in the number of pregnant dogs being imported into the country, with the street value of puppies born from these dogs valued at almost £1 million.

Such dogs are often rescued from horrible conditions and can exhibit nervous behaviour due to poor treatment and neglect. This means there are challenges with care and rehoming.

The Dogs Trust are also concerned at the rate of abandoned animals which is rapidly increasing. They point out that this is likely due to cost-of-living challenges affecting people in South Wales and the rest of the UK.

Wayne David said “It is important that the Conservative Government brings forward the Kept Animals Bill to protect dogs and tackle illegal smuggling. I am a dog owner myself and it is disgraceful that puppies are being brought into the country in this way. Dogs must be treated properly”.