WITH Christmas looming, the ISPCA remind everyone that pets do not make good gifts and should never be bought on a whim or given as a surprise at any time of year. The charity has re-released its video #PuppyDotCon, previously issued by the Irish Pet Advertising Advisory Group (IPAAG), which demonstrates how easy it is to be fooled by unscrupulous dog breeders and highlights the dangers of buying a pet after responding to an online advert.

ISPCA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Andrew Kelly said: “The ISPCA is asking parents to reconsider giving a pet as a gift this Christmas as taking on a pet is a long-term commitment that can affect your life for the next 15 years, so it needs to be a well thought out decision with all the family. Pets do not make good gifts and should never be given as a surprise at any time of year.”