AN operation to crack down on illegal dog breeders in Burnley has seen three pitbull bitches and 21 puppies seized.

In a joint operation between council dog wardens and police, three raids were conducted at undisclosed addresses across the borough.

Acting on tip-offs the dogs, estimated to be worth thousands of pounds on the black market, were taken from their owners.

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An appeal has now been issued to dog lovers in the Burnley area to shun illegal puppy farms in a bid to discourage the spread of banned breeds.

Two years ago the Lancashire Telegraph reported how pitbulls and related fighting dogs were being trained to attack trees in Towneley Park, to increase their aggressive tendencies.

Speaking after the latest operation, council dog warden Matthew Balderson said: “Puppy farms and illegal breeders are just in it for the money.

“They don’t care about the welfare of the dogs and puppies, which often have miserable lives.

“Pitbull-type dogs are illegal. Sadly many are bred either for fighting or are just seen as status symbols.

“Many are cruelly treated and can be simply abandoned when they’ve served their purpose. Using illegal breeders just supports this horrible system.”

The dog warden co-ordinated his efforts with the police and RSPCA before moving in.

Mr Balderson said: “Puppies can sell for hundreds of pounds so this hit the illegal breeders in their pockets and took a number of illegal dogs off the streets.”

Those interested in acquiring a new pet over the festive season are being urged to contact a reputable charity like the Dogs Trust or RSPCA first.

Cllr Lian Pate, the council’s community services cabinet member, said: “If you do decide to buy a puppy then it’s important you do that in a responsible and proper way that doesn’t support illegal and immoral puppy farming.”