This recent article in the Pet Gazette reveals the scale of the problem...or only part of it!
RSPCA raises concerns over rising abandonments this winter
We all know that animal rescues are already struggling and hundreds of unwanted pets are turned away every day due to lack of space, funds and resources. If this irresponsible breeding and trading is not kept under control, more animals will suffer in the new year. It's inevitable.
Those selling sites often argue that they comply to the PAAG Minimum Standards. The PAAG website states the following: 'The Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) was created in 2001 to combat growing concerns regarding the irresponsible advertising of pets for sale, rehoming, and exchange.' The Group has among its members many animal welfare charities, such as the RSPCA, the Scottish SPCA, the Dogs Trust, the PDSA who all agree that pets are not Christmas gifts. So why is this not included in the PAAG guidelines? Why isn't more done to tackle the issue of pets sold as seasonal gifts?
I shall email the PAAG, however if anyone has the power to help improve their current guidelines, I would love to hear from you: info@babba.org
Please keep sharing. The selling sites are allowing the advertising of pets ready to leave 24th December, Xmas eve, Christmas day etc. It really is appalling.
Isabelle Rineau
www.babba.org