Nine puppies discovered in the trunk: Police raise the alarm in Hanover!

Nine puppies discovered in the trunk: Police raise the alarm in Hanover!

When the police are confronted with a shocking discovery on the A2 near Wunstorf, it makes you think. On June 24, 2025, officials discovered nine puppies in the trunk of a car. The small animals, which come from Moldova, were housed in three boxes, without water and in high temperatures - an absolutely unacceptable condition for the four-legged passengers. After animal welfare concerns and a lack of proper documentation, the puppies were immediately taken to an animal shelter. This took place as part of a comprehensive inspection operation in which a total of 176 vehicles were checked - a clear indication of the need for such measures to combat illegal practices in the animal trade. Police also recorded the identities of the drivers and mentioned that a truck driver was stopped while under the influence of strong painkillers and antidepressants. Stressful times for animal shelters!

Would anyone have known that behind the sweet puppy look there was such a questionable business? The illegal trade in pets is still flourishing, and the German Animal Welfare Association speaks of 292 known cases in 2022 that affected at least 1,230 animals. Almost all animals have been confiscated and shelters are struggling to cope with this enormous challenge. What is particularly criticized is that most animals that are transported illegally are often too young and in poor health - a threat to the animals and also a risk for the new owners. The Animal Welfare Association is therefore urgently calling for legal measures to regulate the online trade in animals in order to ensure the placement of healthy and viable pets.

The dark side of the puppy trade

According to Vier Pfoten, 803 dogs were confiscated from illegal conditions in Germany in 2023. However, it is assumed that the number of unreported cases is high. The demand for certain dog breeds, such as Labradors or French Bulldogs, fuels the criminal business, and many buyers fall for the dealers' tricks. They benefit from anonymous sales platforms on the Internet, where animals that are far too young and sick are often offered.

This concern is not unfounded as illegal trade remains a lucrative business. A puppy can be offered online for up to 3,000 euros to maximize the profit margin. This means that animal shelters and rescue centers are in a constant battle against overcrowding and financial strain. Housing confiscated animals is often under-reimbursed, making the situation even more difficult, and many facilities have reached breaking point due to rising costs for food and veterinary services.

A call to action

If you observe the reports about illegal puppy traders, it becomes clear: It is high time to take responsibility. The demands are clear. The German Animal Welfare Association and other organizations are committed to mandatory labeling and registration of dogs and cats across Europe and full regulation of the trade. The protection of our four-legged friends is in the hands of each and every one of us - be it through informed purchasing decisions or through commitment to animal welfare. The market doesn't get cleaner on its own; we have to take action ourselves.

It remains to be hoped that incidents like the one on the A2 are not just perceived as isolated cases, but rather provide food for thought to finally take action. Our animals deserve a better life!