Christmas puppy warning as Minister highlights success of Belfast Harbour rescue

Officers from Belfast Harbour Police with the rescued cockapoo puppies

Ten cockapoo puppies rescued from an illegal smuggling operation at Belfast Harbour are now thriving in loving new homes, as DAERA Minister Andrew Muir urges the public to think carefully before buying a pet this Christmas.

The puppies, discovered in February while being trafficked through Belfast Port, were intercepted following a multi-agency operation involving Harbour Police, Stena Ferry staff, DAERA Portal staff and Belfast City Council dog wardens.

Their rescue has been highlighted as part of this year’s Paws for Thought Christmas appeal, which warns that a pet is for life – not just for Christmas.

After being removed from the smuggling operation, the puppies were taken to Almost Home Animal Sanctuary near Moira, Co Down, where they received immediate care, veterinary treatment and vaccinations.

All ten were later successfully rehomed.

In a recent reunion with some of the puppies and their new families, Almost Home confirmed that the cockapoos have settled well and are flourishing in their permanent homes – a positive outcome that underscores the importance of responsible pet sourcing.

The rescue formed part of the ongoing Paws for Thought initiative, launched by DAERA in 2020 to disrupt the breeding and trafficking of low-welfare puppies. The campaign brings together councils, law enforcement, ferry companies and port authorities to tackle a trade that typically intensifies in the run-up to Christmas.

Commenting, Minister Muir said:

“This year’s Christmas appeal for Paws for Thought and my department’s new social media campaign underpins our determination to do all we can to stop illegal dog breeding and puppy smuggling.

“I have seen first-hand the work of several partner agencies, including port authorities, councils and the PSNI in helping to detect illegal dog breeding and puppy smuggling and I am grateful for their ongoing commitment.

“The public’s support is crucial in helping to stop this cruel trade, and I would urge that any suspicious behaviour is reported to the relevant authorities as soon as possible.”

A spokesperson for the Paws for Thought Group also highlighted the significance of the successful rescue and the role of public vigilance, particularly during the festive period.

“It is incredibly rewarding to see such a positive outcome for the cockapoos rescued in February and to witness effective cooperation between all agencies involved.

“All agencies are conscious that the trafficking of low welfare puppies often increases around Christmas. We urge anyone using the port during this period, to be alert and report anything suspicious. Previous rescues have occurred thanks to the help of the public reporting unusual noise or suspicious activity.”

Members of the public who have concerns about suspicious activity at ports are encouraged to report it to ferry company staff, police or DAERA portal staff. Information posters are displayed at Larne and Belfast ports. Suspected illegal breeding should be reported to local council Animal Welfare Services.

Under the Paws for Thought campaign, DAERA, councils, the PSNI, HMRC and ferry operators work together to detect, investigate and prosecute those involved in the illegal breeding and trafficking of puppies.

Officials warn that animals bred through illegal operations are often kept in poor conditions and may suffer long-term health problems.

Causing unnecessary suffering to a dog or failing to meet its welfare needs is a criminal offence. Convictions can carry unlimited fines and prison sentences of up to five years on indictment, or up to 12 months’ imprisonment and fines of up to £20,000 on summary conviction.

As the rescued cockapoos enjoy their first Christmas in safe, permanent homes, the message from animal welfare groups and government is clear: thoughtful choices by the public can save animals from suffering – and help shut down a cruel and illegal trade.

For more information on the Paws for Thought campaign, visit the DAERA website.