...isn't there a law that would prevent someone who already has 2 dogs which they neglect terribly, from going out and buying a 7 week old border collie puppy as a birthday present for their young son....??
Already I've heard horror stories of the pup being dropped, swung around by its tail and being poked when its been trying to sleep.

Knowing there's little I can do makes me feel very depressed.

Unfortunately there's no test that must be passed before people are allowed a dog. :( It'd prevent a lot of suffering if there was.

Even if there was a test, it doesn't follow by passing the test they are good owners.  We have a driving test and look how many idiot drivers are on the road. :(

Do you think the new laws will help (on the neglect side I mean!) when they come in?  It's awful when you hear stories like this.  It makes me really sad.

Annie

I'm not a great fan of the RSPCA but I really feel a visit to the family would make them sit up and take notice.  They're not bad people as such - just too wrapped up in other things to care much about their dogs' welfare.

I've checked the RSPCA website to see if they will act on an anonymous tip off but it looks like I would have to give my details. They say they treat all reports in strictest confidence but can I trust them ?.......

Phone them up. You can withhold your number, and you don't have to tell them who you are.

Hi Tyby

I once reported a person whose dog had had a very bad ear infection for months and months and was clearly causing it distress.  The dog was also covered in fleas and was let out from dawn 'til dusk.  The poor dog was a sorry state.  I have to say that SSPCA acted on it (and I think a few other people also reported the poor dog too!).  I did leave my name but said I didn't want my name given as having reported it.  They visited the person - not that it had any effect.  The poor thing was still running around shaking his head frantically.  I don't know if they did a follow-up but the person was cautioned as I heard through the grapevine she was really angry about it! 

Annie

I think I will have to ring to report this, it will just play on my mind if I don't do something.  A third party (who has been friends with this family for years and fortunately is an animal lover) has tried to persuade them to put the older 2 dogs in rescue so they would have a chance of better lives but they refuse to consider it.    Apparently one of the dogs has developed a noticeable growth but they can't be bothered to take him to the vets.  Hopefully this, at least, might prompt the RSPCA to take some action.

Thanks for the support.

If you explain that you live nearby, and are afraid of reprisals if you give your name, I'm sure they'll accept that.

Thanks JeanG. I'll do that.

Good luck. At least you'll know you've done what you can.
:)