Puppy scams soar in lockdown

Instances of scams and rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have rocketed during the pandemic, the Kennel Club warns, as thousands make a quick decision to get a new four-legged friend – and miss the key red flags.
By Post reporter
Published 18th Jun 2020, 11:49 BST
Updated 18th Jun 2020, 11:50 BST
Instances of scams and rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have rocketed during the pandemicInstances of scams and rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have rocketed during the pandemic
Instances of scams and rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have rocketed during the pandemic

The welfare organisation has reported a 168 per cent increase in people using its “Find a Puppy” tool since the start of lockdown in March, compared to the same period in 2019. May saw the biggest rise – 237 per cent – as many continued to work from home.

With so many looking for a coronavirus companion, even as lockdown eases, the Kennel Club is concerned that more and more prospective owners aren’t doing their homework – meaning they are left vulnerable to being duped by rogue breeders and online scams.

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According to its research, one in three puppy buyers admits being clueless about how to find a reputable source for their puppy and the scams that should ring alarm bells.

Red flags missed include: not seeing pup interacting with mum; not being asked any questions by the breeder about their suitability for dog ownership; and not seeing any relevant health tests for the puppy’s parents.

For top tips for spotting a rogue breeder plus advice on how to get a puppy responsibly, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/paw