In the Alytus district (Alytaus rajonas, Lithuania), specialists from the State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT)carried out an inspection following a report about illegal dog breeding and poor animal welfare conditions.
During the inspection, officers discovered 57 dogs kept in cramped and neglected enclosures, with several animals confined together. Most of them had no access to clean water, and signs of dehydration, exhaustion, and inflammation were observed. Some animals were even hidden behind double walls.
During the inspection, officers discovered 57 dogs kept in cramped and neglected enclosures, with several animals confined together. Most of them had no access to clean water, and signs of dehydration, exhaustion, and inflammation were observed. Some animals were even hidden behind double walls.
Several dogs were not microchipped or registered in the national Pet Register (GAR). Inspectors also found 18 unvaccinated dogs and several that were possibly pregnant. Their condition indicated a long period without proper care or supervision.
According to VMVT, the woman responsible for breeding left the premises upon noticing the official vehicle and did not respond to phone calls. Despite this, inspectors managed to enter the property and document numerous violations.
According to VMVT, the woman responsible for breeding left the premises upon noticing the official vehicle and did not respond to phone calls. Despite this, inspectors managed to enter the property and document numerous violations.
The head of the Alytus VMVT Division, Artūras Šimkus, stated:
“Do not support the shadow business that causes suffering to animals. Many buyers are tempted by a low price, but such choices ultimately ‘cost dearly’ for the animals themselves.”
VMVT expressed gratitude to volunteers from the organisation “LT-GYVŪNAMS savanoriai” for their assistance in transporting and caring for the dogs.
The Service reminds the public that breeding animals without appropriate permits and proper conditions is a violation of animal welfare law. Such actions are punishable by a fine of up to €4,000 and a ban on keeping dogs for at least two years.
The Service reminds the public that breeding animals without appropriate permits and proper conditions is a violation of animal welfare law. Such actions are punishable by a fine of up to €4,000 and a ban on keeping dogs for at least two years.
More information about the investigation, contact details, and photos from the inspection are available on the official website of the State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT): “An illegal dog breeding site discovered in Alytus district: 57 dogs found kept in poor conditions.” (vmvt.lrv.lt)