In southern Sweden, there has been a marked increase in dog smuggling in recent years.
During 2019 and 2020, the Swedish Customs in Blekinge stopped a total of 23 dogs that were about to be smuggled into the country.
- We have not had so many animals before in Blekinge, says Gunnel Hellman, investigator at the Swedish Customs.
Corona effect
Demand for puppies has increased during the pandemic and the prices of breeds are soaring.
More buyers have also started looking for dog sellers abroad when Swedish dog breeders do not have time to meet the needs.
- I think it's due to the corona.
People sit at home and take the opportunity to get a puppy.
But in those days, I had absolutely not bought a dog.
More dog smugglers are convicted
This year, the Swedish Customs has already stopped 91 dogs at the borders and Gunnel Hellman sees no signs that smuggling will decrease.
The dogs come mainly from Europe and the Balkans, but recently it has been seen that more puppies are also imported from Serbia and China.
- Now we have started to get sentences for these crimes.
It is very positive, says Gunnel Hellman.
Hear more in the clip about a case where two men were stopped in Karlskrona and imprisoned after trying to smuggle in dogs.