How to go about purchasing a healthy puppy
ASK AN EXPERT
I AM looking to purchase a puppy for my daughter but would like to ensure I am following the correct process. I don’t want to buy from an illegal source, end up with a sick puppy or one with behavioural issues. Can you help? YOUR concerns are shared by many other consumers, and for good reason.
It is highly recommended that you do not purchase a puppy via online adverts.
You should seek recommendations from your vet, local dog clubs, approach established breeders or consider getting your new puppy from a rehoming centre.
Many unlicensed dealers will post adverts on websites, using the same number and descriptions.
Copy and paste the number and the description into a search engine – if multiple records come up it could belong to an illegal breeder.
If the seller is advertising multiple litters from different breeds, this could be a sign that they are operating a large-scale puppy farm.
Verified dealers will usually only trade in one specific breed.
If the puppy is advertised as having its own passport, this could be a clear sign that it was farmed overseas and brought to the UK to be sold.
A pup can only be vaccinated when they reach four weeks old.
So, if an advert claims they are vaccinated but are younger than four weeks, it could be a scam.
Puppy scams do not stop online.
Criminal puppy dealers are known to rent properties, which can look like a family home, in order to give the impression that the dog is coming from a responsible source.
The mum should be present, healthy and interacting with her puppy.
If the mother is
“unavailable”, this is a red flag.
Puppies should remain with their mother until at least eight weeks in order to be reared correctly, learn behaviours and socialise.
Ensure the puppy looks healthy with bright eyes and shiny fur.
Check paperwork for vaccinations, microchipping and anti-worming medication.
If these cannot be produced, it is a sign of an illegally bred pup.
Review the documents to avoid fake paperwork, making sure it has the name, number and address of a real veterinary practice.
Verified breeders should be able to produce a local authority breeding licence, or evidence they are members of the SSPCA or Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme. Do not rush into buying. Legitimate sellers will not mind you visiting the puppy more than once, won’t rush you into buying a puppy or pressurise you into a quick sale.
If something does not feel right, walk away and contact the SSPCA on 03000 999 999.
The Scottish Government, in partnership with the SSPCA, has created a website to help consumers follow the correct advice and avoid issues in purchasing a new puppy (https://www. buyapuppysafely.org/).
No mum and no paperwork? Walk away.
This advice should hopefully help you to get the right puppy and avoid any problems.