An animal welfare charity which has rehoming centres in Dorset is urging the public to be aware of the dangers of buying pets online.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue says it has noticed an increase in pets being sold or passed on through anonymous adverts in papers, magazines and on social media platforms.

When rehomed in this way, the charity says often the new owner isn't fully prepared for the needs of the pets they are taking on.

Usually, it alleges, the owner has not recognised the early signs of health or behavioural issues because the seller could not give, or chose not to give all the information about the animal.

Minor behaviour and health issues that aren't identified early can progress quickly into more serious problems, which new owners are unprepared for and often unable to deal with, meaning they have to find another home for their new pet.

A spokesman for the charity said: "We understand that making the decision to rehome a pet can be really difficult and that many can find it hard to approach a rescue centre.

"If you do decide against that and choose to rehome your pet yourself, for example on social media, you may never really know where they are going and whether the new owner will fully understand the commitment of owning an animal.

"People frequently say that bringing their animal to us is the last resort but often approaching us first means that their pet will suffer less stress and upheaval in the long run. All animals that come to us have health and behaviour assessments so that we can match them to a permanent forever home which is in their best interest. Another benefit of deciding to rehome a pet via a rehoming centre is that any pre-existing medical problems will be identified and treatment will arranged before the pet is rehomed."

Staff at the rehoming centres offer advice and will always take an animal back if necessary when circumstances change.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue has been rescuing and rehoming pets for more than 50 years.

In Dorset, cats and farm animals can be taken to the Church Knowle Rehoming and Visitor Centre in Purbeck. They can be contacted on 01929 480474. Dogs can be taken to the Lincoln Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre between Blandford and Bere Regis. This centre can be contacted on 01929 471340.