Puppy selling warning at Henley Market

Officials from Stratford-on-Avon District Council are warning visitors to Henley Market that they must not buy puppies.

The District Council has received several complaints from people who have purchased puppies from sellers at Henley Market which were found to have the deadly parvovirus and subsequently died within days of arrival at the homes of their new owners.

"Anyone seeking to purchase a puppy should be mindful that it is illegal to sell dogs at markets.  Properly licensed animal breeders and pet shops are subject to restrictions and legislation which is in place to ensure that animals are properly treated and protected from illness and other health issues," says Michelle Baird Licensing Manager at Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

"It must be devastating for those families affected who have paid hundreds of pounds to purchase a family pet, only to find that the animal dies just a few days later.  Clearly there is no comeback on the market sellers, who often vanish without trace."

The District Council is asking anyone with information to contact them on 01789 267575.

Meanwhile, if you are thinking of buying a dog, it's worth remembering that there are lots of unwanted animals in rescue homes and shelters that are in need of a loving home.