Cumberland Council is urging residents who are purchasing puppies to only purchase them from licenced breeders.
Breeders require the appropriate licence if they run a business that breeds or advertises dogs for sale.
To check if a dog breeder is licenced, buyers should ask the breeder to show their licence certificate and licence number – this information should also be visible on the Cumberland Council website.
Breeders should be able to provide buyers with proof of whelping, dates and times of birth, weights of puppies and veterinarian records.
Buyers should not buy a puppy from a breeder that is unable to provide this information.
Unlicenced dog breeders often advertise the sale of puppies on free ad websites and social media sites and applications.
If residents have any doubts surrounding the licensing of dog breeders, they are urged to contact the council’s licensing team by emailing animallicensing@cumberland.gov.uk.
Licenced dog breeders are subject to regular health and welfare checks, carried out by vets and by Cumberland Council’s Licensing Officers. Unlicenced sellers can cut corners, and although appear genuine, often put financial gain before animal welfare.
Residents are also being urged to thoroughly research the type of dog they want to purchase, ensuring the breed will suit their lifestyle. Some breeds, such as border collies, are very energetic and require lots of mental stimulation.
Cllr Bob Kelly, Cumberland Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Licensing and Regulatory Services, said: “It’s imperative that those who are looking to buy puppies purchase them only from properly licensed dog breeders.
“Buying from an unlicensed breeder risks the welfare of the dog and risks the buyer finding themselves with a substantial vet bill if they breeder has not taken proper care of their animals.
“Anyone looking to purchase a puppy in the Cumberland area should ask the breeder for their licence documentation, and check whether they are licensed via the Cumberland Council website”.
For more information regarding animal licensing please visit the Cumberland Council website.