Christmas: Dermot’s timely reminder on pet gifts

The TV presenter and huge dog lover is supporting the charity’s 2011 Christmas campaign by warning about some of the pitfalls of picking up a quick puppy purchase.

Dermot says: “The internet seems the most obvious place to go for most things these days, but it pays to do your research before you buy a dog. What you see online isn’t always what you get.

“My advice would be to always see the puppy with its mum and you can’t do this on an internet page.”

Recent research conducted by Dogs Trust reveals that over a third of children have asked for a puppy as a present.

The charity, which is well known for its slogan ‘A dog is for life, not just for Christmas’, believes that part of the reason puppies are considered suitable “gifts” is the fact they are sold so easily though pet shops, newspapers and websites. Despite repeated pleas and online warnings, a worrying 18% of parents would buy a dog online for their children.*

Dermot added: “By buying a puppy from a website you could end up fuelling the cruel practice of puppy farm breeding, where dogs are bred intensively for profit with little or no thought for their welfare. Sadly, these puppies can end up online for a quick and easy sale and you could end up heartbroken and out of pocket with vet fees.”

For more information, advice and facts about buying a puppy go to www.dogstrust.org.uk