Abstract
Recently, much attention has been given to the presence and increase of transnational crime, particularly focusing on online illicit markets. A seldom-explored aspect of transnational online illicit markets is the rural to urban flow of the illicit goods. This paper details research on the UK puppy trade, documenting the movement of puppies reared in irresponsible and/or illegal conditions in rural locations and then advertised online for the urban market. Through analysis of online advertisements in Scotland and expert interviews, a stakeholder survey, and focus groups across Great Britain, we document the rural-urban dynamic of an overlooked transnational illicit market, a market facilitated by neo-liberalism and speciesism. While estimates on the value of the trade are problematic, the snapshot of online sales in Scotland alone suggests a marketplace with an annual value of at least £13 million (17,680 puppies). The cost of animal suffering associated with this trade is incalculable. Awareness must be raised and regulatory enforcement improved to reduce suffering and stop transnational criminals from profiting. This rural-urban dynamic presents a global challenge and demands an international response.
Highlights
Transnational crime, related to online illicit markets, is receiving significant attention due, in part, to its increase
This paper details research on the UK puppy trade, documenting the movement of puppies reared in irresponsible and/or illegal conditions in rural locations and advertised online for the urban market
In relation to prevalence in particular: there are many sources of data available, most are based on estimates or databases that reside with a variety of agencies which do not necessarily share information [EI2]
Summary
Transnational crime, related to online illicit markets, is receiving significant attention due, in part, to its increase. This paper details research on the UK puppy trade, documenting the movement of puppies reared in irresponsible and/or illegal conditions in rural locations and advertised online for the urban market. According to Eurostat, animal industries make up over 50 per cent of agricultural holdings and the majority of ‘outputs’ from farms This only accounts for livestock (poultry, sheep, pigs and cattle) and does not capture the income or prevalence of the rearing and breeding of companion animals. There are over a dozen regulations that address illegal behaviours related to the puppy trade This does not consider what we call irresponsible breeding and trading, where breeders and traders are not breaking regulations but engage in practices recognised as potentially harmful to the dogs and puppies; for example, not screening for certain diseases or breeding closely related dogs
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