90 Puppies seized in house raids in Stockport

A shocking story posted today on the Manchester Evening News Website......

**PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE PUPPIES ARE IN THE CARE OF THE RSPCA NATIONAL SOCIETY AND NOT THE RSPCA STOCKPORT BRANCH**

More than 90 puppies - including four dead Yorkshire terriers - have been seized during raids in Stockport.

The puppies were discovered in buckets during raids by police and RSPCA inspectors in Offerton yesterday morning (Wednesday).

Two of the four dead animals were found in a bucket in the footwell of a parked car.

A further 87 puppies - including french bulldogs, West Highland terriers and pomeranians - were seized and inspected by a vet. Six were in need of treatment for illness.

Officers also seized documentation, mobile phones and computers.

A man was arrested on suspicion of breaching a ban on keeping animals, while a woman was arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting breaching  a ban. Both suspects have been bailed pending further inquiries. Two other men who were at the premises were also interviewed, but released without arrest.

All of the puppies are now in the RSPCA's care pending the outcome of the investigation.RSPCA inspectors from the charity's special operations unit and uniform division were joined by officers from Greater Manchester Police for the raids, part of Operation Pagan.

Two raids were carried out in Stockport, and a further in Greater Manchester.

All the animals were found at an address in Offerton.

The RSPCA today reissued its warning to people to do their homework when they are buying a puppy - and not to buy a pet as a present.

Chief inspector Ian Briggs, from the RSPCA's special operations unit, said: "There are thousands of dogs in rescue centres desperately looking for new homes, but many people continue to fuel the trade in imported puppies by buying from rogue sellers who simply see the animals as money makers.

"At this time of year especially, we want to hammer home the message that people should never buy a dog as a Christmas present.

"Having a pet is a major responsibility, and not something that should be done on a whim as a gift for someone.

"Never let your heart rule your head and buy a puppy because you feel sorry for it. If you have any reservations at all, you should always walk away."

If you need to report cruelty, an animal in distress or just need advice about an animal issue please contact the National RSPCA 24 hour helpline on 0300 1234 999

**PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE PUPPIES ARE IN THE CARE OF THE RSPCA NATIONAL SOCIETY AND NOT THE RSPCA STOCKPORT BRANCH**

A big THANK YOU for the great teamwork shown by the police, RSPCA and vetinary staff who helped to rescue these little puppies. YOU'RE THE BEST!!!

Please visit our facebook page for more information and a link through to the GMP Stockport East facebook page.

Published on 04-12-2012 - 20:15 - last updated on 04-12-2012 - 20:15