SUFFOLK police are urging anyone considering buying a dog on the internet to be alert after reports of a scam were received by officers.

SUFFOLK police are urging anyone considering buying a dog on the internet to be alert after reports of a scam were received by officers.

Earlier this month a Rendlesham resident spotted an advert on the internet for a Siberian husky puppy, advertising all that was needed to buy the puppy was the cost of transportation - several hundred pounds.

The buyer was told there was a shipping company involved and was asked to pay half the cost.

She was then pressed for more money as refundable insurance and in total sent �350 to an address in Africa.

The buyer was then told that the dog was stuck at a UK airport and further cash was needed to obtain permits - requesting hundreds of pounds in addition.

The Rendlesham resident then contacted the airport and was told there were no dogs awaiting shipment, realising it was a scam and no further money was handed over.

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said the constabulary have received several reports from people living in Ipswich, Stowmarket, Felixstowe and Bury St Edmunds being conned in a similar way in recent weeks, trying to buy a variety of dogs including King Charles Spaniels, Pugs and English Bulldogs.

Anyone considering buying a dog over the internet is urged to be cautious and not to send money if there are any doubts the seller may not be genuine.

The spokeswoman said: “In many of these cases the buyers have transferred money to banks or addresses in Africa - despite the seller often giving a story that they are UK based.

“As with any transaction it is always wise to speak to local sellers and tradesmen to get quotes or view items before agreeing to purchase as many reputable companies and dealers will be covered by other guarantees and trade association good practice.”