Two of Britain’s largest animal welfare organisations have warned York students not to purchase cute pug dogs after they were being sold on social media websites.
Advertisements to buy the wrinkly, short-muzzled face hounds have been posted to Facebook groups such as the “York Uni Second Buy/Sell Market”, which was designed for final year students to sell some of their belongings before they leave.
It is not known how much the dogs are being sold for, but sellers are claiming that they do not come with health complications or medical problems.
One advertisement posted says: “Cute male and female Pug puppies are ready to go to any pet loving family.they are very sociable with kids and other household pets.come with all health papers with No complication.please if interested do send me a private message for more details.thanks” (sic)
One student, who does not wish to be named, told York Vision that they had approached their landlord to ask if they would be allowed a pet, to which they were told ‘no’.
On-campus accommodation bans students from owning pets inside their halls but off-campus accommodation depends on the contract entered into.
A leading vet has previously called for pug dogs to be banned.
Last night, Caroline Kisko, the secretary of the Kennel Club, said students needed to be aware of the “big commitment” involved in taking on a dog.
“Anyone thinking about getting a dog needs to be aware that they are a big commitment,” she said.
“We’d advise against getting a dog on impulse as there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration, such as whether your lifestyle is suitable for a dog; if you can afford to pay for its food, vet bills, and the many other bits you will need; if you have the time to properly train and socialise a dog; and if you can offer the dog a stable and loving environment.
“Students may not be in an ideal position to give a dog the care and attention it needs due to the already busy schedule they have with lectures, studying, and of course keeping a social life.”
Mandy Jones, Blue Cross Head of Rehoming Service, added: “Pet ownership is a rewarding experience but needs a lot of thought, both about the long term care of that pet and what pet is best suited to you before taking the plunge.
“Students wanting the company of a pet but not the long term commitment could consider short term fostering or centre volunteering, rather than making a 15 year commitment when they don’t know what their post Uni lifestyle will be.”