Under Lucy’s Law, which was introduced following a Mirror campaign, pet shops and third-party dealers are banned from selling puppies and kittens. However, coronavirus lockdown rules preventing non-essential travel have sparked fears animal-loving families could skip checks and turn to unscrupulous sellers. Animal welfare specialists Tech4Pets recorded 27,128 UK online adverts for dogs and puppies in the six weeks before Christmas last year. “However, the lead up to Christmas is a prominent time for unscrupulous sellers to take advantage of those looking to buy a new pet. “That is why we are advising people to remain vigilant and to always thoroughly research sellers before getting in touch.

Source: Daily Mirror November 13, 2020 00:00 UTC