Puppy Mills
Online pet sales have certainly made it easier for disreputable sellers to profit from the high demand for purebred dogs and "designer" crossbreeds.
This has fueled the rise of puppy mills, essentially dog farms to supply the pet trade.
Animals are over-bred, unsocialised, confined in cages without exercise, and often have genetic defects causing expensive and upsetting issues for future owners. Vet checks are usually nonexistent and paperwork or pedigree records refused.
In Australia, the RSPCA estimates that a shocking 95 per cent of all puppies sold originate from puppy mills or backyard breeders.
Ideally a new pet should be obtained from a shelter or reputable breeder, however the reality is that the online trade of pets will continue to be a popular practice.
Buying Pets Online
If possible, visit the seller and view the animal and the environment in which it has been raised. Ask to see the parents prior to purchase and check their condition thoroughly.
Request as much information as possible. A good breeder will have comprehensive records of their animals and be happy to share them.
Ask for verification of the following:
• A copy of a vet check including hip scores for dog breeds prone to dysplasia.
• Microchipping details
• Vaccination card
• Pedigree papers
• Contact details for at least two other purchasers so as to obtain a reference of the quality of the animal
If a copy of a vet check is not forthcoming, have your own one done by a local vet. This is well worth the expense.
In addition to email communication, phone the breeder and ask them to describe the following:
• Health and genetic history of the animal's parents
• Temperament of the animal up for adoption
• Frequency of litters produced
• Description of their facility
• Information and advice regarding the specific breed for sale
Legitimate, caring and responsible breeders will be able to provide adequate information that assures the buyer they are purchasing a healthy animal form a reputable source. A puppy farmer will have no hope of giving you sensible answers which is a clear warning not to proceed with the sale.
Buying an animal from a sub-standard facility is not rescuing it - it is creating a demand for more of the same. Pass on the information you have gathered to the SPCA and let them deal with it.
Selling Pets Online
If you find yourself on the other side of the fence, it is up to you to ensure your pet continues to get the care it deserves.
Always include a "subject to suitable home" clause in your description and stick to it.
Talk to the potential purchaser to ascertain their suitability. Be honest if you feel the animal is not a good match - especially with regard to dog breed and size. Ask about previous experience, housing and shelter available, and who and what the pet is for.
Have the patience to allow a potential purchaser to spend some time with the animal to ensure it is a good fit.
If you are selling a dog, a property check prior to completing the sale is advisable to ensure the new owner has a suitable home and facilities. This is not a way to "catch someone out", rather an opportunity to offer advice and suggestions.
Have the confidence to say no. This can be a little awkward, especially in person, however when weighed up against the animal's wellbeing, it's definitely worth a few moments of unpleasantness.
In my experience, most people want to care for their animals properly, and many online pet sales will be between responsible caring people.
However, while there are no legal regulations on animal sales, the internet provides a limitless market for unscrupulous individuals to profit at the expense of animal welfare.
