A BORDERS woman has warned against the dangers of getting your pet from illegal puppy farms.

Emma, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, says she initially made contact with a man selling a puppy through an online advert, before later purchasing the pooch.

However, her puppy, named Bella [name changed], soon fell ill and Emma says she “can’t stress enough how important it is to do your research” before buying from a breeder.

'We were incredibly upset'

Speaking about meeting the seller, Emma said: “The first thing he said was ‘do you have the money?’, but we didn’t.

“Then he said the puppy had had the first vaccinations and was due the second on the Monday.

“But Bella soon fell ill and after taking her to the vet, we found out she had parvovirus – a highly infectious disease that can be fatal.

“She was very seriously ill – she had fleas, worms, tested positive for campylobacter and parvo.

“She was not microchipped and took ill so quickly. We did not have a chance to arrange insurance so also had to pay high vet fees.”

“It was a distressing time, and we were both incredibly upset. She is doing better now, but we are still very worried about what the future holds. No wee puppy should go through this.”

'Walk away if something doesn't look right'

Before meeting the seller, Emma was told that the man’s father had underlying health issues and was shielding due to COVID-19.

The seller requested that, because of this, he should bring the puppy to Emma and her partner’s house.

Now, Emma’s advice is that people should see the puppy with its mother, along with getting proof that the pet has been microchipped and vaccinated.

“Illegal breeders don’t tend to produce paperwork or certificates to prove the puppy has had their vaccinations and been microchipped.

“So beware of excuses or paperwork that doesn’t look right or which doesn’t have the name, number and address of a real veterinary practice.

“Even if you are desperate for a pup right now or overcome by strong emotion to rescue it, if something doesn’t feel right, walk away and report your concerns to the Scottish SPCA on 03000 999 999.”

Emma was speaking as part of the Scottish SPCA’s #LookBeyondCute campaign.

The campaign warns people to avoid illegal dealers following an increase in the demand for puppies due to the coronavirus pandemic.