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Exposing Bulgaria's Illegal Puppy Trade on Social Media
Investigation
TRACKS Investigations carried out an undercover investigation across Bulgaria on behalf of FOUR PAWS to expose the illegal puppy trade operating through Facebook. Investigators identified sellers advertising puppies on social media, made undercover enquiries, and conducted eleven field visits to document breeding conditions, animal welfare, sales practices and compliance with Bulgarian law. The investigation formed part of the Protect Puppies on Social Media campaign.
Findings
Across eleven undercover visits, investigators uncovered widespread illegal and irresponsible breeding practices. Six of the eleven sellers offered puppies below the legal minimum sale age, ten failed to provide microchips or EU pet passports, and nine were operating without breeder registration. Investigators also documented puppies and breeding dogs kept in poor conditions, illegal ear cropping and tail docking, and attempts by sellers to avoid traceability by arranging sales in public locations or advising buyers to obtain documentation after purchase. Facebook groups were the primary marketplace in every case investigated.
Impact
The investigation provided further evidence of how social media platforms are facilitating the illegal puppy trade despite their own policies prohibiting private animal sales. The findings support FOUR PAWS' calls for Meta to remove illegal puppy-selling groups, strengthen enforcement against irresponsible breeders, and improve protections for both animals and consumers.
Explore the full 37-page investigation report, featuring detailed case studies, photographic evidence and recommendations. Click here
Tracks Investigations has undertaken over 300 investigative film projects supporting over 40 animal protection NGOs since its inception in 2006. Learn more about how you can work with us here. To support our investigative work for animals, click here.