Thinking of buying a puppy? Here's what to do to stay safe and find a happy, healthy animal

IF you’re looking to buy a puppy, it’s important to be careful to protect both you and the animal.

Animal welfare experts have warned that a booming demand for trendy breeds is fuelling a lucrative but criminal trade in pets, with numbers of puppy farms increasing.

Here’s what experts advise on how best to buy a health, happy puppy.

SEARCH THE NUMBER

Many rogue dealers advertise on several websites so copy and paste the number into a search engine to see if other ads appear. If they do, it’s likely to be a dealer.

MEET THE MUM

Make sure to see the pup’s mother, she should be healthy and interacting with her puppy. If the seller gives excuses that the mother is unavailable, beware.

SEE THE PAPERWORK

Another warning sign is if the seller cannot produce paperwork or certificates to prove the puppy has had vaccinations or been microchipped. This is a legal requirement and any excuses should raise concerns.