Puppy farms profit from cruelty

I REMIND you of the horrific pictures of Irish puppy farm dogs seized earlier this year. In response, former environment minister Martin Cullen set up a group to review dog breeding establishments nationally.

Puppy farms originated in Wales which has the second highest number in Europe, after Ireland. After World War II the authorities there decided that a good way to generate some income for impoverished farmers would be encourage their wives to breed pedigree pups.

It would allow disused sheds and barns to be put to use again. It would also allow for improved community spirit between involved parties.