Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders has backed a move from the NSW Government that will target illegal companion animal breeders through a dedicated ‘Puppy Factory Taskforce’.
Mr Saunders said that puppy factories are in clear breach of the State’s robust animal protection laws, and the taskforce within RSPCA NSW would allow them to weed out bad operators.
“I strongly condemn any acts of cruelty perpetrated against animals, and this Government won’t be shy in going after breeders who put profits first and animals second,” he said.
Mr Saunders said that the new taskforce, announced by Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall on Thursday, will consist of four new RSPCA inspectors (six in total) who will spend their time inspecting breeding facilities across the State.
“The new taskforce will ensure breeders are meeting the NSW Government’s robust animal welfare requirements,” Mr Saunders said.
“Demand for pets has risen during the COVID-19 period and so too has reports of puppy factories, so the Government has made it a priority to commit additional resources at this growing and deeply concerning problem.
“To the breeders doing the wrong thing, this is your last warning, do the right thing or you will have our enforcement officers on your doorstep.”
Under current rules, any breeder found to be doing the wrong thing can have their animals seized, fines up to $22,000 and jail time of up to 2 years per offence.
RSPCA Inspectors have carried out 22 raids so far this financial year (since 1 July 2020) compared to 51 in total for the last financial year.