CON artists are posing as animal welfare officers in a bid to steal pet pooches for illegal dog fights, it has been claimed.

Residents in Motherwell’s Newarthill have been warned to look out for the bogus Scottish SPCA officers, whose doorstep tactic is to tell owners they have had numerous complaints about the dog, which will be confiscated as a result.

It is understood that the pooches are being stolen to be used as bait in illegal dog fights.

The community council said in a warning that the bogus callers, who wear SSPCA copycat uniforms, have been using a brush to bang against a paint pot in a bit to identify the homes with dogs. The bogus callers are also believed to have been targeting smaller dogs.

In a warning, a resident said: “My niece nearly caught them in Jerviston, everyone needs to be vigilant.”

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn warned dog owners that his staff would never turn up at a door without official identification.

He said: “We are saddened to hear of people impersonating our inspectors who work hard to build positive community relationships.

“Under no circumstances will an inspector or animal rescue officer attend an address without full uniform and official identification. The Scottish SPCA uniform can be identified by the branded epaulettes and logo across the front of the jacket. If you are at all unsure about a visit made by one of our inspectors please call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

Police Scotland confirmed that they were aware of the issue.

Are you a victim of this crime? E-mail stacey.mullen@heraldandtimes.co.uk