Questions include where the puppy came from, how it was advertised, how much it cost and if you'd buy another puppy from the same place. Results will enable the charity to identify if buying a puppy is generally a positive or negative experience.

Justine Pannett of the RSPCA said: "You can pick up a puppy from a newspaper advert, a neighbour, pet shop, farm or breeder, so we're trying to get a grip on how successful people's experiences actually are.

“It's obvious to say, but a puppy is a living creature and this survey will help us determine whether or not these dogs are suffering throughout the experience, or if in general they are treated well."

Anyone who has bought a puppy in the last three years is encouraged to take part in the survey, which runs until Monday, May 12. It can be found at www.rspca.org.uk/puppysurvey

l If you have a beautiful puppy or pet of any description why not put their photo on the Readers’ Pets Photos section of the Standard’s website; visit www.sleaford.standard.co.uk for details.