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How to Know if you are Falling Victim to a Puppy Scam!
- fieldstonekennels
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Puppy scams are unfortunately prevalent in the online pet marketplace, with up to 80% of websites advertising dogs for sale being fraudulent!
To avoid falling victim to these scams, it is crucial to be aware of the warning signs. Reputable breeders typically focus on a single breed, so websites offering multiple breeds for sale should raise suspicions. Additionally, conducting thorough research on the seller, requesting detailed information about the puppy, and being cautious of unusually low prices can help identify protentional scams.
When trying to detect potential puppy scams, here are the top 10 key items to look for:
Multiple Breeds for Sale: Reputable breeders usually focus on a single breed. Beware of websites offering multiple breeds for sale.
Unusually Low Prices: Be cautious if the price of the puppy seems too good to be true. Scammers often lure in victims with exceptionally low prices.
Limited Information: Scammers may provide limited information about the puppy, its background, or its parents. Request detailed information and be wary of vague responses.
Payment Methods: Be cautious of sellers who insist on specific payment methods that offer no buyer protection, such as wire transfers or gift cards.
Avoiding Direct Contact: If the seller avoids or delays direct contact, refuses video calls to see the puppy, or pressures you to make a quick decision, these can be red flags of a scam.
Shipping: A puppy can NOT be shipped the next day. If the seller tells you that they can ship you your puppy the next day, you are being a victim of a scam. All puppies that are shipped by airline NEED a health certificate filled out by a licensed veterinarian. All puppies being shipped by ground transportation and are crossing state lines also need a health certificate filled out by a licensed veterinarian.
Avoiding Face-to-Face Interaction: Scammers may avoid or delay direct contact and refuse video calls to see the puppy. Insist on a video call to view the puppy and its environment.
Non-Existent Physical Address or Refusal to Provide One: Scammers may not provide a physical address for their operation or may refuse to share it when asked.
No Refund or Return Policy: Legitimate sellers typically have clear refund or return policies. The absence of such policies could indicate a scam.
Reviews and Testimonials: Scour the internet for reviews and testimonials about the seller and their puppies. Lack of positive feedback or multiple negative reviews could indicate fraudulent activity.
By being vigilant and looking out for these key items, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to puppy scams. Remember to do thorough research on the seller and trust your instincts.
To educate oneself about puppy scams and stay updated on the latest fraudulent activities, websites such as the American Kennel Club, PetScams.com, and Top Dog Tips offer valuable resources and information.
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