The run-up to Christmas is well and truly upon us - and some households are planning for a furry new arrival this holiday season.
But the DSPCA is reminding us of the old adage: 'A dog is for life, not just for Christmas'.
People are being encouraged to think long and hard about such a big choice.
The DSPCA says it will have over 80 puppies looking for new homes over the next few weeks, and are encouraging people to look at adoption or even fostering from shelters and not just buying from breeders.
The body also says it is expecting to see a significant increase in the number of puppies exported by puppy farmers and puppy traders from the Republic to the UK as we approach the Christmas period.
It is reminding people that there is legislation in place governing the movement of puppies and dogs, both of people's own dogs and those involved in commercial trade.
All puppies and dogs much be accompanied by their EU Pet Passport and have been properly vaccinated and microchipped.
Gillian Bird and Brian Gillen from the DSPCA joined Newstalk Breakfast - with two extra special guests.
These beauties are looking for homes - can you help? So hard to put them down & go back to work. Thanks @DublinSPCA! pic.twitter.com/5ZpdmBtmNV
— Jack Quann (@jqbilbao) December 1, 2015
