A WEE COUNTY vet practice is joining the fight against puppy dealers by launching a new educational service for would-be pet owners.

Inglis Vets in Alloa have launched free ‘pre-pet’ consultation sessions, where people thinking of getting a new puppy or dog can visit to speak to a qualified veterinary nurse to assess which pet would be suitable for their lifestyle.

The practice has felt the need to implement this service after seeing a rise in the number of puppies being brought in with health-related issues, often associated with irresponsible breeding, or worse, puppy-farming.

As well as this, the practice often meets pet owners who have taken on a particular breed which isn’t suited to their lifestyle.

Laura Cowan, branch manager and vet, said: “Sadly, we’re seeing more and more puppies come in for their first health check displaying signs of illness.

"When you ask owners where they got the puppy from, it’s often from an advert they’ve seen online and basic things you’d expect from a good breeder aren’t being met.

"For example, the new owner not being able to see the pup’s living conditions, or their mother, and no paperwork provided when they take the pup home.”

The ‘pre-pet’ consultations are free for anyone thinking of taking on a puppy or dog.

During the session, a vet nurse will run through a number of aspects with the potential owner, such as what kind of breed they’re looking for, their activity level, financial costs associated with dog ownership and information and materials to help them choose their new pet responsibly.

Laura Sinclair, vet nurse, said: “It’s a shame when you see highly-energetic breeds taken on by people who can’t give them the physical or mental stimulation the dog needs.

"This can often lead to more dogs in rehoming centres, so this is a chance for us to educate people better before they make any rushed decisions without doing the proper research.”

The initiative also backs the ‘Say No To Puppy Dealers’ campaign driven by the Scottish SPCA, by promoting responsible ownership and breeding.

Kirsteen Campbell, Scottish SPCA chief executive, said: “We are delighted to support this initiative from Inglis Vets.

"Unfortunately, many members of the public inadvertently fall victim to the illegal puppy trade as they seek the next ‘cute and fluffy’ addition to their family.

“By helping families better understand the commitment required to best care for certain breed types, and how to buy or rehome puppies responsibly, Inglis will really help reduce the number of incidents involving unwanted dogs.

"If you’re looking for any further information about the puppy trade and how to spot potential dealers, visit www.saynotopuppydealers.co.uk.”

For more information on the free service, call Inglis Vets Alloa on 01259 304 444 or visit inglisvets.com