While the old cliché goes that a dog is for life not just for Christmas — with rogue dog breeders attempting to take over the market — there are more important checks to be done (other than establishing if you’ve got time to look after your pooch) before buying this Christmas.
The rise in demand for puppies has massively inflated prices, some popular breeds now sell for thousands. This spike has led to an increase in puppy farming, where puppies are bred in squalid conditions and put at high risk of illness. A recent report from The Kennel Club found that more than 22% of dogs bought in Yorkshire are suspected to have originated on a puppy farm— a clear indication that buyers are overlooking red flags in order to secure the puppy of their dreams.
A spokesperson for The Kennel Club said, “Scammers and puppy farmers are clever and will do what they can to disguise their cruel trade so it’s important to be extremely vigilant. Puppy buyers should make sure they’re asking the right questions, see the puppy, with their mum and in their home environment, and step back if things don’t feel right.”
It’s important to remember that the wellbeing of your future pet has to take priority over a bargain buy— you’ll only end up paying for it in future vet fees. If prices do seem too high, it might be worth considering rescuing a pet from a reputable charity like the Dog’s Trust before being drawn into an online scam.
To help make the right decision, the Kennel Club have launched a special set of ‘Be Puppywise’ guidelines. Head to thekennelclub.org.uk/bepuppywise. For more responsible puppy-buying advice and practical resources.
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