The 'red flags' to look out for when shopping for a pet online this Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner, and while it’s the peak shopping period for retailers around the country, it’s also a busy time of year for pet breeders.
But those looking to purchase a puppy or kitten are being warned to do their research before buying an animal as a gift this year – especially from online advertisers.
The RSPCA insists that buyers should never purchase an animal without meeting it in person first.
“You need to see them in real life so you can assess their health and behaviour, check their home environment to be sure they don’t come from a puppy farm, and even just to see that the spark is there between you!” the RSPCA wrote on their blog.
Buying a pet without meeting it first could mean you are inadvertently supporting puppy farming – or even falling victim to a scam.
The organisation has identified four ‘red flags’ that could possibly identify a dodgy breeder online.
Sellers that sell animals younger than eight weeks old
No animals should be sold under eight weeks of age, the RSPCA said, explaining that young animals are not fully weaned and will still have a low immune system.
“No trustworthy seller will rehome a puppy or kitten before 8 weeks of age,” the organisation wrote.
Sellers that offer to arrange delivery
According to the RSPCA, reputable sellers should have an interest in meeting a pet’s new family and making sure their new home will be a safe and loving one.
Likewise, buyers should want to see how the dog has been raised, and potentially meet the pup’s mother and/or father.
No proof of animal DNA testing
Some breeders will advertise that they’ve had their pooch DNA tested – but unless they’ve got the documentation to back it up, it doesn’t mean much, the RSPCA said.
Research should be done on the particular breed being purchased, as each breed has its own health issues.
Breeders should be testing for diseases as well, and supplying the new family with the results.
Limiting or omitting information
The last warning is about what a breeder is NOT telling you.
The RSPCA warns that anyone thinking about getting a pet should be wary of advertisements with a lack of information.
“Be concerned if the advertisement doesn’t tell you whether the animal is microchipped or not; whether it is desexed or not; and how it has been bred or sourced.
“Lack of information can indicate a dodgy seller who’s hoping you don’t notice the absence of important facts.”
For more information about purchasing a pet, check out the Smart Puppy Buyers Guide and the Smart Kitten Buyers Guide.
