State ‘slow to help puppies’

THE Government has been accused of dragging its heels in destroying Ireland’s shameful reputation as Europe’s puppy farm capital.

The National Stray Dog and Cat Forum has urged Environment Minister Dick Roche to control the business and fears the delay could be interpreted as a lack of Government commitment to addressing such a serious problem.

Forum member and TV vet Pete Wedderburn said: “Already another Christmas season of trade in unhealthy, sub-standard puppies is guaranteed with thousands of Irish puppy farm-bred dogs ending up on the market in Ireland, Britain and America.”