Please see below for a message that has been circulated by Telford & Wrekin Council:
Parent/Carer Information
Important Safeguarding Notice: Children’s “Spy Dog / Spy Pup / Spy Cat” Books
We want to make you aware of a recent issue affecting some popular children’s books by Andrew Cope, including the Spy Dogs, Spy Cats, and Spy Pups series.
Some editions of these books include a printed web address at the back. This link used to go to the author’s website, but the domain is no longer under his control. It has since been taken over by another party and now leads to inappropriate adult content.
The publisher, Puffin, has paused sales and distribution of the books and is working with schools, libraries, and retailers to remove copies from circulation. They have stressed that the website has no connection to the author or publisher.
What this means for you:
- If your child has any Spy Dog, Spy Cat or Spy Pups books at home, please check the back for website links and make sure they do not try to visit the site.
- It is safe for children to continue reading the stories themselves — the concern is only with the outdated link.
- We recommend talking with your child about the importance of not following web addresses in books without checking with an adult first.
- Should you have any questions or require any further support please do not hesitate to contact us at educationsafeguarding@telford.gov.ukWe will continue to share updates from the publisher as more information becomes available.