101 dogs rescued from illegal breeders in Greater Manchester

101 dogs have been removed from houses in Greater Manchester after an investigation in illegal dog breeding.

The 101 dachshunds were removed from households in Rochdale, Oldham and Salford that were suspected of selling dogs without a licence.

Every dog was taken into care by the RSPCA.

The operation was led by Rochdale Borough Council’s partnership enforcement team, assisted by 30 Greater Manchester Police officers, RSPCA inspectors and officers from neighbouring authorities.

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.

"Thanks to all of our partners who made the operation run smoothly.”

An investigation into illegal dog breeding began two months ago as a result of residents’ complaints and reports of dogs being sold by suspected breeders.

The dogs are not currently available for adoption as they still form part of an investigation.

They are all being looked after in approved kennels and are going through health checks.

Rochdale Council are asking people to contact them on 0300 303 8871 if they bought a dachshund within the borough of Rochdale in the last 12 months.