Report claims 20% of pups bought online die within six months

Almost one in five puppies bought online or through social media sites in the UK die within six months, according to research carried out by The Kennel Club UK.

However, the Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says there is evidence that many buyers here in Ireland are also having negative experiences when buying animals online.

Complaints include buyers not receiving important information and documents including papers such as microchip change of ownership forms and vaccination details.

Gillian Bird, from the DSPCA, said: "The DSPCA have been getting quite a few complaints recently from buyers who have had bad experiences when buying online.

"Complaints like people not getting the correct paperwork, like the Irish Kennel Club papers and vaccination certs.

"A lot of animals are going to people where they require ongoing, expensive veterinary treatment because of birth problems and bad breathing conditions."