Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Paws for thought before buying pet
USPCA cautions against buying pups in lockdown
COLLEEN TINNELLY FROM THE USPCA
THE public is being urged to be vigilant when adopting pets to stop illegal dealers cashing in during the coronavirus pandemic.
With people spending more time at home during lockdown, animal charities have seen inquiries to rehome pets increase dramatically.
As further restrictions have been introduced, the demand is continuing and prices are soaring for dogs and cats.
Colleen Tinnelly, development manager at the USPCA, said people should ensure they can cope with the demand of pet ownership as well as avoiding illegal dealers.
She revealed they are worried about a potential influx of abandoned and vulnerable animals after the pandemic. Ms Tinnelly said: “Whilst we recognise that there are many kind families out there ready to give a rescue animal a loving home, there are many who do not take into full consideration the amount of time and dedication n eeded to look after these animals. “There is training involved and it does take up a lot of time.”
“We really would urge the public to be very, very careful and to do their homework. “But, most importantly, what will happen to the dog when restrictions are eased.
“So, just like Christmas, an animal is not for lockdown, it’s for life.
“They are not an impulse buy so we urge the public to think about this quite carefully.”
Ms Tinnelly said illegal breeders are trying to cash in, describing it as “incredibly worrying from an animal welfare point of view”.
She added: “The demand has created a massive hike in the prices for animals – puppies that we would have seen being sold for £300 are now being offered for £1,800.
“If you are thinking about getting a dog, there are a number of checks to do – see the mother, go to the house and check they are registered breeders.
“Illegal breeders are now using
Covid-19 as an excuse not to see the mum, as you can’t enter other people’s households.
“But we would still urge people to be vigilant and not to fall for these tactics.
“Do not buy your puppy from the side of the road, do not meet breeders in another town.
“If you are seriously wanting to get a pup or dog, be careful and wait.
“Do not go online and get the first pup that comes up, that can come with horrifying results.”
The USPCA works against illegal puppy farms through the UK and Ireland-wide Operation Delphin.
In August it helped rescue two adult dogs and 10 puppies at Cairnryan port.