MEP vows to save puppy-smuggling laws

Richard Howitt MEP with Rita Smith with the Camsight dispaly at the King Edward Centre Chatteris ANL-141010-193939009

That is the message from MEP Richard Howitt, who has promised to launch a last-ditch attempt to save a proposed new European law that would “eradicate puppy smuggling in our county overnight”.

Mr Howitt, who is MEP for the East of England constituency which includes Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, has received hundreds of emails from constituents begging for more to be done to stop illegal puppy smuggling and has vowed to take their demands to Europe.

More than 200 puppies were illegally smuggled into Beds and Herts last year.

Richard Howitt, who is also vice-president of the RSPCA and is one of the key champions behind proposed moves to microchip all cats and dogs in the European Union within four weeks of birth, said: “This illegal trade hugely impacts upon the health and welfare of the animals involved.

“Many of these smuggled puppies are born into inhumane conditions, are not house trained and transported great distances.

“This is an issue that I have received hundreds of emails about and it is very, very important to my constituents.

“I will not give up the fight to end puppy smuggling and I will fight to take their concerns to the very heart of European law.

“It is vital we end this practice and that is why I am proud to be championing these proposed laws and once again showing why Europe makes a positive contribution to Hertfordshire life.”