Following years of high-profile campaigns, finally, on Monday, April 6, the Government has introduced landmark new legislation called “Lucy’s Law” which bans third party sales of kittens and puppies in England.
The new law is named after Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was rescued from a puppy farm in Wales where she was subjected to terrible conditions.
With the new legislation, anyone wanting to get a new puppy or kitten in England must now buy direct from a breeder or consider adopting from a rescue center instead.
Furthermore, thanks to Lucy’s Law, licensed dog breeders are required to show puppies interacting with their mothers in their place of birth.
If a business sells puppies or kittens without a license, they could receive an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months.
Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “It will put an end to the early separation of puppies and kittens from their mothers, as well as the terrible conditions in which some of these animals are bred.”
Naturally, Lucy’s Law has been welcomed by many animal welfare campaigners such as Chris Sherwood and Marc Abraham, among others.
Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: “We’re incredibly pleased that the Government is today introducing a ban on third-party sales of puppies and kittens. We believe that this, along with tougher licensing regulations that were introduced in 2018 and better education of the public on how to buy puppies responsibly, will help to crack down on this cruel trade. We hope these laws will be properly enforced so that all dogs who are used for breeding and selling will live happy, healthy lives where their welfare is prioritized above profits.”
Over the last ten years (2009-2019), the RSPCA has taken 28,168 complaints relating to the illegal puppy trade. And over the last seven years, the nonprofit has rescued 2,172 dogs from the puppy trade.
Marc Abraham, media vet, author, and founder of Pup Aid said he is “incredibly proud” to have led the 10-year campaign to ban cruel puppy and kitten dealers.
He also said: “Lucy was an incredibly brave dog, and it’s right that her memory is honored with such an important piece of legislation to help end puppy farm cruelty; protecting breeding dogs just like her, as well as cats, their young, and also unsuspecting animal-lovers from the dangers of irresponsible breeding and cruel puppy and kitten dealers.”
