Here’s why you soon won’t be able to buy puppies in pet shops

Parliament has its sights set on cracking down on puppy farms in England thanks to a new law being presented.

Known as Lucy’s Law, the rules and regulations around the sale of puppies and kittens are set to become much stricter.

What is Lucy’s Law?

This new law would ban third parties from the sale of puppies and kittens, meaning that prospective pet owners will have to liase with a breeder directly, or an animal rehoming centre.

It would also dictate that animals must be born and raised in a safe environment, with their mother, and sold to owners from their birthplace.

The law takes aim at those looking to take advantage of the Pet Travel Scheme by bringing young puppies into the UK and selling them on.

David Rutley, Animal Welfare Minister, said, “As well as protecting and improving the lives of animals, it’s also about protecting the public from being tricked by unscrupulous sellers.

“Our ban on third party sales means that people can see first-hand that their new pet is healthy and has come from a responsible breeder.”

This law would come into effect in the spring of 2020.

Who is Lucy?

Originally launched on 6 December, Lucy’s Law is named after Lucy, a cavalier king charles spaniel that was rescued from a puppy farm in Wales. She had suffered terribly, resulting in fused hips, a curved spine, bald patches and epilepsy.

After having lived most of her life in a cage and was now unable to have puppies, Lucy was rescued by Lisa Garner.

With Lisa, Lucy enjoyed three years of quality love and care until she passed away. Lucy’s story inspired Lisa to set up the campaign.