Daniel Brocklebank adopted his puppy from Dogs Trust after she was illegally smuggled into the UK from Poland.
The ‘Coronation Street’ star offered his pooch Karen-Jean, a four-month-old Dachshund pup, a forever home after hearing about her plight, and he has teamed up with Dogs Trust on its Don’t Be Dogfished campaign to help stop dog lovers falling victim to deceitful puppy sellers online.
Daniel – who also acquired his canine Colin from the welfare charity – said: "Both Karen-Jean and Colin had really tough starts in life.
"Sadly not every smuggled puppy is as lucky as they are to be rescued and find a happy home. Many suffer life-threatening health conditions, and some don’t survive, leaving people helpless and heartbroken – as well as out of pocket.
"It’s so easy to buy a dog online nowadays but not every seller can be trusted.
"By advising dog lovers on what to watch out for we hope the campaign will help prevent people being dogfished.
"Colin is such a huge part of my life and is being lovely with Karen-Jean, I can’t wait for Karen-Jean to settle in just as well as he did.
"I’m excited to watch them play together and form a bond, they’ve definitely found their forever home with me."
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, has warned people about dealing with "devious" dog dealers.
She said: "It’s fantastic to have Daniel’s support on our campaign warning people ‘Don’t be dogfished’.
"We want to help stop people being duped into buying puppies that have been illegally imported into the country by devious dealers.
"People think they are getting a healthy, happy puppy but behind the curtain lurks the dark depths of the puppy smuggling trade.
"If it seems too good to be true, as hard as it is, walk away and report it."
Like Karen-Jean, Colin was also smuggled into the country illegally and taken in by Dogs Trust.
Daniel recently thanked Dogs Trust – which specialises in the well-being of canines – for their "amazing support" after he added Karen-Jean to his family.
He wrote: "I would like to introduce you all to the newest addition to the family… Colin now has a sister, Karen-Jean!! Huge thanks to the @DogsTrust again for all their amazing support. (sic)"
Dogs Trust replied: "Karen-Jean is one lucky girl, thank you for giving her a forever home!"
Daniel Brocklebank adopted pup from Dogs Trust after she was smuggled
