Seeing a little puppy under the Christmas tree on the morning of December 25 was one of our biggest childhood dreams.

 

A puppy was always at the top of our Christmas lists when we were kids. If your child is asking for a puppy or a kitten for Christmas, it’s important to remember that it is a huge responsibility.

 

Bringing a pet into your family is a serious step. You must think about the decision for a long time because a pet is for life and not just for Christmas.

 

Each year stories emerge about the mistreatment of pets once the festive period is over. Many children grow tired of their new furry friend and the parents are left to look after the dog.

 

There have been many cases where dogs and cats have been abandoned shortly after Christmas time. Dogs Trust UK recently revealed that over 100 dogs were seized at the border who were being smuggled into the country by bootleg breeders.

 

It is understood that the breeders are smuggling thousands of dogs into the United Kingdom in the run-up to Christmas.

 

 

Some of the breeds being trafficked include French bulldogs, pugs, and dachshunds.

 

Reports have shared that the puppies are being transported across Europe in dire conditions. They are enclosed in a cramped area with no air or sunlight. Some of the puppies are as young as four weeks old.

 

Dogs Trust UK said the ‘sickening trade’ needs to stop. The director of the animal charity told the BBC, “Buying an illegally imported puppy could potentially cost well-meaning but unsuspecting families thousands of pounds in quarantine and vet bills and emotional heartache for the family if the puppy falls ill or worse, dies.”

 

It is believed that over 275,000 dogs were brought into Great Britain last year.

 

Dogs Trust UK expressed their concerns over the public’s lack of knowledge on this issue. They have encouraged families to be diligent if they are considering adopting a puppy.

 

 

They advised families not to adopt during Christmas as it is such a hectic time of year. Your dog won’t be able to settle in at their new home when there are parties happening and visitors popping by every ten minutes.

 

Remember that owning a dog is a lifetime commitment. Every Christmas, Dogs Trust see at least 1,000 unwanted and abandoned dogs walk through their doors.

 

They have asked people to adopt their pet from a local shelter or a rescue centre or from Dogs Trust and to stay clear of buying a dog from bootleg breeders.

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