Eastern European countries in particular specialize in breeding dogs. Puppies from Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Hungary are flooding our country. However, the quality of these animals is below par. Maleficent breeders let sick dogs give birth to mentally and physically ill puppies in the most disgusting conditions. With often falsified passports, these young dogs leave for Belgian pet shops and dog traders, to resell them to ignorant consumers.
Although the Belgian government knows that Eastern European traders often bring sick dogs into our country, it is a piece of cake to export them massively to our country. Ineffective and lax control helps these unscrupulous breeders and criminal sellers to keep their business running. Moreover, the online sales through platforms and social media also ensure that they can further expand their business inconspicuous.
Apache spoke with veterinarians, lawyers, specialists in the field and competent authorities in recent weeks. We contacted 300 people who bought a puppy from Slovakia in 2016. Does their four-legged friend still live? Does the animal have physical or mental problems? Is the information on the passport correct? One thing is certain: the puppy trade is very problematic. Every day, certified breeders and traders, with the approval of the government, manage to deceive people. One good advice: think twice before you purchase a puppy during the coming holidays.
