Four puppies have died after eight sickly dogs were seized from a low welfare breeder at an Airbnb.
The dogs were rescued from the address in Glasgow on January, 28, following a special investigation by the Scottish SPCA.
The Airbnb's owner had unwittingly rented out their accommodation to the puppy dealers who were using the property to farm out the dogs.
Tragically, four of the pups died from painful health issues including parvovirus.
The SSPCA says it has become aware of puppy farms operating out of Airbnb listings, but this is the first time it has seized any dogs.
As reported in today's Daily Record, callous breeders use the rentals to sell multiple puppies before moving on without a trace.
However, Airbnb is now working closely with the SSPCA to crack down on the practice.
A special investigations unit inspector, who cannot be named due to undercover work, said: “We became aware of a number of properties booked on Airbnb being used by unscrupulous dealers to sell pups at high cost.
"Sadly, the puppies became seriously ill or passed away.
“With the help of Police Scotland we entered the address where we discovered eight puppies of varying breeds.
"We visually assessed the pups and it was clear they were in very poor health.
“They were immediately taken for veterinary attention where it was found they had a range of health issues such as parvovirus, parasitic and bacterial infections and heavy worm burdens.
"Unfortunately, despite the best efforts to save the lives of the pups, four of the puppies sadly passed away."
The SSPCA is now urging the public and short-term rental property owners to be vigilant.
The inspector explained: "One host on Airbnb discovered faeces and dog waste inside a cupboard after having rented their home out. They were suspicious and rightly contacted us.
“There is a large number of known, connected puppy dealers selling dogs in this way.
“Puppies and their parents are suffering and dying due to this industry.
"As long as this is happening, we will do what we can to bring down this appalling trade. Public demand remains sky high and as long as this continues, bad dealers will find any means to operate.
“We are very pleased to have the support of Airbnb who are just as dedicated to tackling this issue as we are.”
Patrick Robinson, Director of Public Policy at Airbnb, said, “We were incredibly saddened to learn about this incident and the fate of the puppies and thank the Scottish SPCA for their vital investigative work.
“We want to ensure justice is served and welcome the opportunity to support the Scottish SPCA on their investigation.
"The vast majority of Hosts and guests are good neighbours who follow the rules, and we take swift and robust action against anyone who doesn't live up to the standards that communities expect.”
Lockdown has seen increased demand for puppies with many breeders trying to capitalise at the expense of animal welfare.
Marjorie Gibson, head of operations with Advice Direct Scotland, which runs consumeradvice.scot, said: “Lockdown has resulted in more and more people considering getting a puppy for their household.
“That trend has led to an increase in illegal breeders and puppy farms, who sell puppies which are not ready to leave their mother and haven’t had the correct treatment or vaccinations.
“That can often result in the dog becoming extremely unwell and even dying.
“Anyone who doubts the credentials of a puppy seller should trust their instincts and pull out of the sale.
“Suspicious activity should also be reported to the police or Scottish SPCA.”
Last week, we told how one Glasgow family was left fighting to keep their new puppy alive after it began defecating blood moments after being dropped off at their home.
Little Skye was rushed to the vet and thankfully survived, however not all new dog owners have been as lucky.
Today, the Record revealed a ring of closely-knit Irish breeders is booking lets in flats in Glasgow to create a false impression of pups being well looked after in family settings.
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