Rabies alert puts puppy smugglers in spotlight

FAMILIES hoping to buy a pet for Christmas have been warned against buying a smuggled puppy which could carry rabies.

- David Williamson

A crackdown on puppy smuggling is coming and people are urged to avoid "unscrupulous traders".

A new law will give the Government powers to ban the import of puppies and kittens aged under six months, as well as dogs and cats that are mutilated or heavily pregnant.

In the meantime, the chief veterinary officer has urged people to make "responsible choices" when they are buying a pet.