The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) has drawn attention to the problem of sub-standard puppy farms operating in the Republic.

Puppy farmers are commercial breeders who raise many litters of pups, usually small breeds, for profit.

According to the ISPCA, very often the mothers and puppies are kept in dark, over-crowded sheds or basements and have little or no human contact or affection. Puppies from sub-standard puppy farms are more likely to have health problems, such as skin allergies and heart disease, than puppies kept in better environments.

There is also a very high risk of behavioural problems.

The ISPCA advises anyone who is thinking of buying a puppy to go through the following check list.

1. Check with your local vet or breed club to see what breeders they recommend.

2. Insist on seeing the mother with the puppies.

3. Check that the facilities are clean and that the puppies are alert and healthy.

4. Ensure that all the relevant paperwork is available when you purchase the puppy.

5. Check whether the puppy has been vaccinated and wormed. A first vaccination certificate should be signed by a vet.

6. Request a written agreement that purchase is subject to a satisfactory examination by your vet within 48 hours of purchase.

7. Only buy from reputable breeders that specialise in a small number of breeds.

8. Be sure that you are well informed about the breed of dog you are planning to purchase.

The ISPCA appeals to the public to consider giving a home to one of the many abandoned puppies and dogs that are looked after in its shelters all over the State.