West Midlands vet warns against impulse-buying pets online
A West Midlands vet charity is warning people to thoroughly research before purchasing a pet online, amid a rise in unchecked breeding.
Last updated 26th Oct 2026
Veterinarians in Birmingham are raising concerns about the increasing trend of purchasing pets online, with statistics indicating that over 60% of pet owners are acquiring their pets through online platforms like social media and advertising sites.
In the West Midlands, The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals charity found that 22% of pet owners admit to doing no research before acquiring a pet, while 61% say they found their pet online.
Steve Howard, Chief Veterinary Advisor at PDSA, highlights potential risks associated with online pet sales and emphasises the importance of researching pets before purchase.
He warns that it has become easy for people who are "less honest" to sell pets online:
"Impulse purchases are particularly dangerous," Howard says.
"The buyers then find out that the puppy isn't necessarily healthy or hasn't been raised or socialised in the right way - and that can create problems."
Howard warns that buying pets without understanding their needs can lead to serious health and welfare consequences, both for the animals and their owners.
He also says that influencer culture has contributed to harmful trends, such as popularising dogs and cats with flat faces.
"A pet that looks cute isn't necessarily always the healthiest," Howard explains.
"So don't just go on whether a pet looks cute or not. It is about really doing that research. What are the specific needs of a pet? What are the potential health problems with a pet that they are going to or thinking about acquiring? What might the cost of preventive care for that pet be?"
He advises potential pet owners to ensure they see the animal with its mother, as this could help verify the authenticity of the seller and the pet's upbringing.
The PDSA Pet Hospitals have flagged the need for owners to consider factors such as pet breeds, costs, exercise requirements, and how a pet might fit into their lifestyle.
To aid in pet care, Howard suggests visiting credible information sources like PDSA's Pet Health Hub.
Howard stresses that thorough research can help potential owners understand preventive care costs, such as vaccinations, neutering, and microchipping.
For more detailed guidance and information, Howard recommends visiting the PDSA website, which offers veterinary-approved advice.