‘Operation Toto’ is now in effect.
The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is working with Gardaí and customs officers in their efforts to stop the illegal trade of animals in Ireland, Breaking News reports.
The operation, which is titled Operation Toto, will highlight the measures required to transport pets through the ports between Ireland, France and the UK.
All pets travelling in vehicles through the port must have a pet passport. If they are coming in from the UK, they can also present a veterinary certificate.
They must also be micro-chipped and registered with their owner.
Additionally, pets must be vaccinated against rabies. As this inoculation takes place when puppies are at least 15 weeks old, this measure means that very young puppies cannot be brought into Ireland on vehicles through the port.
Operation TOTO – Traveling with your pet 🐾
The DSPCA is working with Custom Officers and An Garda Síochána at Dublin Port in a new operation to highlight the legal requirements for the movement of Pets between Ireland, the UK & France https://t.co/Pg3T77EK7d pic.twitter.com/uKiL6XFamJ
— DSPCA (@DublinSPCA) October 8, 2021
In a statement, the DSPCA said: “Pets that are traveling on board with people in their vehicles must hold a valid pet passport or a veterinary certificate (UK only). Your pet must also have a rabies vaccination, which means your pet must be 15 weeks or older to travel with you. Your pet must be microchipped with the microchip registered to you the owner.”
They continued: “As ever the DSCPA are thankful to Customs for their support in highlighting this issue to the traveling public and for their on going vigilance in addressing the illegal puppy trade from Ireland into the UK. We would also like to the thank the Department of Agriculture for their support in this important campaign.”
Earlier this year, legislation to fine puppy farm breeders up to €10,000 was brought before the Dáil. As it stands, the maximum fine for breaking laws in relation to dog breeding in Ireland is €5,000.
