The public has been strongly encouraged to think carefully before deciding to buy a pet as a Christmas gift for a loved one this year.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir issued an appeal urging potential owners to pause and reflect on the commitment required before bringing a new animal into their homes.

The importance of sourcing puppies responsibly was highlighted by the successful rescue and rehoming of ten smuggled cockapoos discovered at Belfast Harbour in February. The pups were prevented from being trafficked onwards thanks to joint action involving multiple agencies, including the Harbour Police, Stena Ferry staff, Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Portal staff, and Belfast City Council dog wardens.

This intervention was executed as part of the multi-agency Paws for Thought initiative, which DAERA launched in 2020 specifically to disrupt the breeding and trafficking of low-welfare pups.

The rescued puppies were taken to Almost Home Animal Sanctuary near Moira, Co Down, where they received immediate veterinary care and vaccinations. The sanctuary confirmed during a recent reunion with the dogs and their new families that all ten cockapoos have settled well and are thriving in their permanent homes. Commenting on the issue, 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."

He added that public support is vital in combating this cruel trade: "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—which comprises representatives from local councils, the PSNI, Belfast Harbour Police, Stena and P&O ferry companies, HMRC, and DAERA—noted the positive outcome for the rescued dogs: "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."

The group confirmed that the trafficking of low-welfare puppies often sees an increase around Christmas. They urged port users to remain vigilant: "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."

Anyone with information concerning suspicious activity at the ports should report it to ferry company staff, police, or DAERA portal staff. Information detailing how the public can report concerns is available on posters displayed at Larne and Belfast ports. Similarly, any suspicions regarding illegal breeding should be reported directly to the local council's Animal Welfare Service.

For more information visit, www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/paws-thought