A dedicated "hit squad" has been formed to hunt down and weed out "cowboy breeders" running puppy factories in NSW.
The newly-formed Puppy Factory Taskforce, which falls within the RSPCA, will task six inspectors with conducting compliance checks on breeders through the state.
Working with police and intelligence officers monitoring online platforms, the team will help root out "grubs" who are profiting from the mistreatment of animals, Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall says.
"My message today is clear - to the cowboy breeders doing the wrong thing, this is your last warning," he said in a statement.
"Comply with the law or pack up and move on - you will be caught and have the full force of the law thrown at you."
Reports of unethical breeders have been climbing alongside demand for puppies during the pandemic, he says.
"Most pet owners would be horrified to find out their beloved pets came from a banned puppy factory, so these new measures will help to provide added comfort to those thinking of bringing a fury friend into their family."
Any breeder found to be breaching the state's animal protection laws face fines of up to $22,000 and up to two years' jail time per offence.
The RSPCA has already carried out 22 raids since July, and the extra funding will help them save more puppies from misery.
"Every day we face the dark side of the animal breeding industry, where profits are put above an animal's welfare," RSPCA NSW chief executive Steve Coleman said.
"Countless animals come through our doors in appalling condition and suffering from health and behavioural problems."
"This funding will help us double down on cruelty of this nature. The message is loud and clear - it will not be tolerated."
The funding will go towards more frequent, targeted snap inspections and will help to give animals rescued the veterinary care, rehabilitation and love they need.
Australian Associated Press
