101 dachshunds recovered after illegal dog breeding crackdown

Dogs now in RSPCA care amid ongoing investigation

An investigation into suspected illegal dog breeding has seen 101 dogs removed from houses in Greater Manchester (Rochdale Council)

A mass crackdown on illegal dog breeding has seen authorities in Greater Manchester rescue a total of 101 dachshunds from households suspected of selling them without a licence.

The dogs were recovered from nine properties across Rochdale, Oldham and Salford last week following an operation assisted by 30 police officers as well as RSPCA inspectors.

Mark Widdup, director of neighbourhoods at Rochdale Council, said: “It is really pleasing that we have been able to execute the warrants successfully and place the dogs into care”.

The crackdown is the result of a two-month long investigation into illegal dog breeding following tips from the public.

All of the dachshunds have since been taken on by the RSPCA and are being looked after in approved kennels while undergoing health checks.

Rochdale Council confirmed the dogs were not yet available for adoption as they still form part of an investigation.

In a statement the authority urged those who had bought the breed of sausage dog from the area to contact council officials.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “On Tuesday, November 12th, RSPCA officers and partner agencies including Greater Manchester Police and Rochdale Trading Standards executed warrants at addresses in Rochdale, Oldham, Heywood and Little Hulton.

“We are unable to comment further while enquiries continue.”