Couple Caught Smuggling Puppies on German Motorway
A couple from Romania, residing in France, were intercepted on the A3 motorway in Germany with five smuggled puppies hidden in their vehicle. The incident, discovered by a customs unit in Schweinfurt, highlights the growing illegal puppy trade from Eastern Europe.
The couple, who could not provide valid veterinary certificates for the animals, were stopped at the Sandgraben Nord motorway service area. Five puppies were found concealed under blankets in a cramped transport box on their small transporter with Romanian registration. This is not an isolated case; such illegal transports, often involving poor conditions, are on the rise.
The incident occurred on September 16, 2025. The couple was fined 1,500 euros and may face criminal charges for violating the Animal Welfare Act. The puppies were promptly secured and transferred to the care of the local veterinary office for medical attention and appropriate accommodation.
The interception of this illegal puppy transport serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of animal smuggling. Authorities remain vigilant to prevent such cruel practices and ensure the welfare of these innocent creatures.
