Illegal pet breeding operation raided in central Taiwan
台灣中部查獲非法寵物飼養場
| 80 dogs and cats to be put up for adoption after mandatory sterilization
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taichung Animal Protection Department raided a residential building in the city’s northern district on Saturday afternoon, rescuing 80 dogs and cats from an unsanitary and unlicensed breeding operation. Local residents reported the operation to authorities, frustrated by the use of a rooftop and basement to house animals in cramped cages. Complaints cited foul odors and constant barking, CNA reported. KMT Taichung City Councilor Chen Wen-cheng (陳文政) said neighbors had filed multiple complaints with the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) and the Animal Protection Department. Authorities acted after a new building was completed next door to the problematic residence. During the raid, officials found 74 dogs and six cats living in poor conditions, with unclean drinking water and cages littered with feces and urine. Many of the animals were unsterilized, and puppies on-site indicated illegal breeding activities. To protect the animals’ welfare, the Animal Protection Department confiscated them and will relocate them to safer facilities. The department will also assess the animals for injuries or signs of mistreatment and may refer the case to local prosecutors. The pet owner completed paperwork relinquishing ownership of the animals. After sterilization procedures, the public will be informed about the adoption process in accordance with Taichung City's animal sheltering policies. The owner will also be blacklisted as a prohibited breeder. Under Taiwan’s Animal Protection Act, operating a breeding facility or engaging in the trade or fostering of specific pets without proper authorization can result in fines ranging from NT$100,000 to NT$3 million (US$3,000-91,000) and an order to cease operations. If intentional harm leads to severe injury or death of an animal, the offender could face up to two years in prison and fines between NT$200,000 and NT$2 million. |
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| Sean Scanlan, Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2025-01-19 |
