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<p>Defra takes the issue of illegal dog and puppy imports very seriously. This is
an abhorrent trade which causes suffering to the smuggled dogs and puts the health
of pets and people in the UK at risk. Defra is working hard to tackle the problem
through a comprehensive approach that seeks to target both the supply and demand of
illegally imported dogs.</p><p> </p><p>International engagement is one aspect of this
approach. It takes place through Defra, with input from APHA intelligence and expertise.
Under Article 26 of EU Regulation 1/2005 (on the protection of animals during transport
and related operations), Defra notify Member States of the origin of the transporter
where a welfare issue with an import has been identified. We send these to notify
the Member State so that they can take remedial action to ensure that the transporter
complies in future. The notifications include details of passports and certificates.
The UK Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) has written to her counterparts in countries
where illegally imported dogs typically originate, including (most recently) her counterparts
in Hungary and Serbia. The issue also continues to be raised and discussed at EU CVO
meetings.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
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