MSP puts puppy farming in focus

ANIMAL welfare was in the spotlight at Holyrood when a group of dogs visited the parliament for a photocall. They were there for an event sponsored by South Scotland MSP Emma Harper to highlight the urgency of ending puppy farming, which causes immense suffering for the pups involved and leaves the families who unknowingly buy them heartbroken. She said: “I was pleased to host the SSPCA and show MSPs for themselves some of the victims of this pernicious trade. “We know the law-breaking involved in puppy farming doesn’t usually stop at their contempt for animals and their welfare – it also extends to organised crime and wider criminality. “It is crucially important to make sure the message is shared to policy-makers in our national parliament. This is vital if we want to tackle this cruel and heart-breaking trade and those behind it. She praised the SSPCA and Police Scotland for their work, adding: “Ultimately this market would disappear overnight if the demand disappeared – and that means buying puppies through reputable and legitimate sellers.” Photo: Peter Devlin