The multi-agency campaign aims to raise awareness ahead of potentially increased demand for puppies coming up to Christmas.
It is being supported by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and Trading Standards.
PSNI Inspector Amanda Ford says, “Many people start their search for a new puppy online, and the campaign aims to raise awareness that buyers are more likely to buy an illegally bred puppy than they think.
“We are working in partnership to put a stop to illegal puppy farming, welfare concerns and serious organised crime within our District with our ‘Paws for Thought’ campaign.