How to avoid the puppy traffickers

 To avoid getting caught out by the puppy traffickers, here are some simple steps you can take:

Always see a puppy with its mother

You should always see a puppy with its mother in the place where the puppy was bred. Ideally you should see the father too, or at least a photo of him. If the breeder cannot show you the mother or father, you should be suspicious.
 

Find out about the puppy's background

Get as much information as possible about where the puppy has come from, and beware if the breeder is from outside the UK.
 

Has the puppy REALLY been vaccinated?

Puppies should have received their first vaccinations before they leave their mother so always ask to see the vaccination card. Beware that vaccination cards are easy to fake - if the veterinary surgeon's contact details are not visible, or has an address from outside the UK, the card may be fake.

Pedigree certificates are not a guarantee

Bear in mind that pedigree certificates are not a guarantee for the condition of your puppy, and may not even mean you are being sold a pure-bred dog. If you are told that the puppy is Kennel Club registered or bred by a member of the Kennel Club's Accredited Breeders' scheme, it's advisable to check. Contact the Kennel Club on 0870 606 6750 or visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk

Always see a puppy in the place it was bred

Don't ever buy from someone who offers to deliver your puppy, or who arranges to meet you somewhere.

Concerned about the welfare of a puppy?

Never buy a puppy just because you feel sorry for it. If you are concerned about the health or welfare of a puppy, please contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line: 0300 1234 999. Calls are treated in the strictest confidence.