Smuggled beagles rescued from van as puppy prices reach all time high

Four tiny beagle puppies were rescued from the back of a van amid fears a huge lockdown demand for new dogs is fuelling the illegal smuggling trade.

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Prices for all of the UK’s most desirable dog breeds increased month-on-month since lockdown began in March with an average rise of 71%, the research revealed.

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With legal breeders unable to keep up with demand, the smuggling trade has exploded leading to calls for more more regulation.

‘It’s unsurprising that the priciest dogs are desirable breeds and those that we so often see being illegally imported into the country.

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She said: ‘I think most responsible breeders have been quite cautious about that explosion in demand and just made sure that they find the puppy owners that have thought about the breed that they’re buying and that this is a lifetime decision, not just a Covid decision.’.

‘We have rescued many dogs like these four illegal beagles, which have been transported here in appalling conditions, destined to be sold on to unsuspecting dog lovers.

Dogs Trust staff found the beagles after a passer-by reported the van had a ‘strong smell emanating from it’.

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The puppies were seized and taken to see a vet. They are now being cared for by expert staff.

Potential dog buyers are being warned to avoid being ‘dogfished’ and not to inadvertently fuel the illegal importing trade by buying from dodgy dealers.

Campaigners also want to see tougher penalties brought in for smuggling dogs. Currently very few cases have ever been prosecuted and sentences are longer for smuggling cigarettes than smuggling puppies.

Ms Boyden added: ‘Action needs to be taken immediately, as too many puppies are suffering at the hands of cruel traders and too many dog lovers are being left to pick up the pieces. Every day of Government delay leads to preventable suffering for puppies and dogs.’

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