Neglected puppies rescued in major RSPCA operation

DOZENS of scared and neglected dogs have been seized from a puppy farm in a major operation. But the RSPCA fears an insidious industry is still running rampant.

Following the successful execution of a warrant on an intensive dog breeding facility in Northern Victoria yesterday, RSPCA Victoria is, for the first time, opening its doors to a very small number of journalists and photographers to give a first-hand account of the operation, meet some of the dogs and the team that will now be responsible for their welfare and rehabilitation whilst in our care.Cavalier King Charles with her puppies that have been quarantined at the RSPCA in East Burwood. Picture Norm Oorloff

DOZENS of frightened and neglected dogs have been seized from a puppy farm in a major RSPCA operation.

Acting on a tip-off, RSPCA inspectors and police raided a regional property yesterday and rescued 48 dogs and 21 puppies.

Cavalier King Charles spaniels, kelpies, poodles and a heavily pregnant spaniel are among the dogs now in the RSPCA's care as an investigation into the puppy farm continues.

Picture Norm Oorloff

Picture Norm Oorloff

RSPCA inspectorate manager Allie Jalbert said she had “significant welfare concerns” about conditions at the “intensive breeding operation”. “We certainly take a strong stance against inhumane conditions for any animal,” Ms Jalbert said.

But she warned this raid could be “the tip of the iceberg” as illegal breeders tried to avoid detection.

“We believe that there is a number of underground breeding establishments and they’re moving between properties,” Ms Jalbert said.

The rescued dogs will remain at the RSPCA’s Burwood East shelter as evidence until they are surrendered by their owners or taken from them in court proceedings.

Carers played them classical music and gave them new toys yesterday to help them feel comfortable in their new home.

Picture Norm Oorloff

RSPCA Puppy farm dog rescue.

Ms Jalbert said the investigation was ongoing and she could not identify the exact location of the breeding facility.

But she said puppy farm operators faced jail time, fines of up to $75,000 and court orders banning them from owning pets.

The RSPCA has launched an online tip-off service in a bid to find and shut down more puppy farms and Ms Jalbert urged people to come forward with information.

She also encouraged people to adopt pets from rescue groups and shelters instead of buying animals bred at puppy farms.

Tip-off service: www.rspcavic.org/tipoff

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