Hertfordshire agencies unite to tackle illegal puppy trade
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Police are warning members of the public that breeders may resort to intimidation, violence or other coercive behaviour to get what they want.
The RSPCA are joining forces with agencies in Hertfordshire to tackle the illegal trade in puppies.
Together with Herts Constabulary and Dacorum Borough Council, the RSPCA aim to educate people of the heartbreak they could face if they buy a puppy from an unlicensed breeder.
The move comes just weeks after the bodies of several puppies were found dumped in undergrowth by a lane in St Albans.
Agencies have also reported an alarming increase of incidents and crimes in the area which are thought to be connected to the illegal puppy trade.
“There are clear links between unlicensed puppy breeding and criminal activity,” commented sergeant Karen Mellor from the Hemel Safer Neighbourhood Team.
“Breeders are believed to be targeting people - often vulnerable individuals - in Hemel Hempstead and the surrounding areas to use their homes to sell puppies, using the property as a meeting place after advertising the dogs online.”
The police are warning members of the public that breeders may resort to intimidation, violence or other coercive behaviour to get what they want.
“Police will take action to protect vulnerable people and investigate any crimes that come to light,” added sgt Mellor.
“We are working together with the RSPCA and Dacorum Borough Council, and are sharing information in order to build up a picture of what is happening so that we can effectively tackle the issue.”
According to Dacorum Borough Council there are currently no licensed commercial dog breeders within the area.
Anyone who believes they may have bought a puppy from an unlicensed breeder, or has concerns about the welfare of dogs and/or puppies at a premises in the area, should call the RSPCA’s emergency line on 0300 123
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
