More than 250 Labradoodles need homes after Tasmania’s largest puppy farm closed following a landmark out-of-court settlement.
Tasmanian Labradoodles was closed on Friday after a lengthy legal battle with the RSPCA over allegations of over-breeding.
Hundreds of Labradoodles have been handed over to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, more than a year after the organisation first brought 70 charges of over-breeding against their owners in 2023.
The charges against co-owners Elizabeth and Paul Bartlett relate to alleged breaches of Animal Welfare (Dogs) rules which state that a dog may not have more than two litters in an 18-month period.
The couple had pleaded not guilty to the charges in a previous court session.
Since an agreement has been reached, the charges will not be pursued.
RSPCA chief executive Andrea Duckens said the deal represented a “historic victory for animal welfare” but there was still a huge amount of work to be done to rehome the puppies.
“We have been fighting to close Tasmania’s largest puppy farm for almost three years and we have finally succeeded,” Ms Duckens said.
“Now, the RSPCA needs urgent financial assistance to provide veterinary care, temporary homes and eventually adoption for the more than 250 Labradoodles currently on the property.”
Ms. Dackens said it could cost the charity at least $1,000 per dog to cover expenses, including vet checks, vaccinations, behavioral assistance, food and temporary rehoming.
“This is an urgent appeal for anyone who can to donate to the RSPCA to help us provide this critical care for hundreds of Labradoodles. No matter how small the donation, every dollar counts,” she said.
“We have set a goal of raising $300,000 to help us provide the care, medical requirements and loving foster environments to put these Labradoodles on the path to their forever homes.”
Ms Duckins is also calling on the Tasmanian Government to make “urgent” changes to the state’s dog regulations.
She said current laws had “failed” everyone because they did not deter incidents of animal abuse.
“Under current laws, Tasmanian Labradoodle owners would have faced a maximum penalty of just $273,000, just the cost of running a puppy farm with an estimated $2 million in revenue.
“The laws must be changed. We cannot allow a situation like this to happen again.”
