Puppy farms: Top tips when buying a puppy
Tonight, vet Joe Inglis reported on the potential dangers of purchasing pups from a puppy farm.
The RSPCA estimates that around 1,000 dogs a week are brought into the UK from Ireland, where there is currently no dog breeding legislation.
Joe's top tips when buying a pup:
- When going to see the puppy, always make sure you see its mother in the place where it is bred. Ideally see the father too. If they refuse, be suspicious.
- Always check out the vaccinations the pup has been given. A vaccination card are easy to fake, if you are unsure contact the vet. Be aware of an address from outside the UK.
- Remember the cost of care, pet insurance and vet bills could total £10,000 over the dogs life.
- A dog needs at least 1-2hrs of exercise and mental stimulation everyday. Do you have the time?
- Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 a pet owner has a legal duty to ensure the welfare of his animal(s).
- Finally, never buy a pup because you feel sorry for it!
Useful Links:
- BBC Watchdog: Puppy Scams
- Direct Gov: Animal and Pets Welfare (external site)
- RSPCA (external site)
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