Dogs and cats seized from 'designer breeding farm' in WA
More than 70 dogs and cats have been seized by RSPCA WA from a semi-rural property suspected of operating as a large-scale breeding farm for "designer" pets.
The alleged puppy farm in the Shire of Gingin includes French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Maltese and Shih Tzu.
Sphinx and "Munchkin" cats - a new breed of cat distinguished by their very short legs - have also been seized from the property.
The RSPCA released a statement on Friday saying 46 dogs and puppies and 20 cats and kittens were removed after a member of the public saw several dogs and one deceased dog near the property.
Five animals were also removed from the site on Thursday.
The RSPCA said the owners agreed to hand the cats and dogs over rather than pay fines for infringing animal ownership laws, which state that residents cannot keep more than two dogs without local council approval.
The owners must surrender all but four animals to the RSPCA, which would endeavour to re-home them.
The RSPCA said the animals seized appeared to be healthy but would be assessed by a veterinary team over the next few days.
The State Government is consulting with the RSPCA and other organisations to develop laws governing dog breeding, The West Australian reports.
Measures include a registration system for puppies at point of sale or adoption, mandatory dog breeding standards and an inspection and enforcement system.
