Smuggling

Puppy smugglers bringing rare diseases that can kill humans into the UK, top vet claims

Puppy traffickers are exposing the UK to rare diseases that can kill humans, a top vet warns.

Parasites and ticks living on the poorly dogs – which are battery-bred in horrendous conditions before they are transported hundreds of miles – can be passed on to unwitting owners.

Experts claim 200 pups are brought here illegally every day and many have conditions including parvovirus, echinococcus, leishmaniasis – and even rabies.

Caroline Allen, London veterinary director of the RSPCA, said: “Cases are rising and it’s worrying.