Animal charities are investigating reports of unwell puppies being sold at a motorway service station.

Both the RSPCA and Animal Protection Services (APS) have received reports that sick dogs have been traded at the Maidstone services at Junction 8 on the M20.

Confirming its teams are aware of the reports, an RSPCA spokesman said they could not reveal any further details while investigations continue.

"We are aware of this and are looking into it," they said. "However, we are unable to discuss complaints about specific people and what action may have been taken.

"We understand how frustrating that is for animal lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future investigation or could lead to us being fined."

Scams and instances of rip-off merchants illegally selling puppies have sky-rocketed during the coronavirus crisis, the Kennel Club has warned.

With so many looking for a pet during the pandemic, the Kennel Club is concerned more prospective owners aren’t doing their homework - meaning they are left completely vulnerable to being duped by rogue breeders and online scams.

An APS spokesman pointed to new laws which mean anyone looking to acquire a canine companion must do so via registered channels.

They said: "If you or anyone you know has purchased a puppy with health problems from the services, please get in touch with APS to support their investigation into low-welfare puppy sales.

"A new landmark legislation introduced in April this year means that anyone who is considering bringing a companion animal into their home must either adopt the animal from a rescue centre or buy direct from a breeder."

The reports of illicit pet sales comes shortly after a stolen dog was rescued on the A249 near the Stockbury roundabout and Kent County Showground.

A chip scanner identified the little Cavapoo as Peanut who was stolen along with eight others earlier this month.

Anyone with information about puppy sales at Maidstone services is asked to contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999

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