How to Avoid Puppy Scams

Each year there are hundreds of people that ignore (or don't know) red flags while searching for a new puppy. In 2017, BBB ScamTracker reported 907 pet scams and the Federal Trade Commission report found some 37,000 complaints involving pets. As we approach the year 2020, scammers are getting more savvy. It's becoming easier to scam the unknowing. This is disheartening, financially burdening and frustrating (to say the least) for buyers, breeders and pet stores alike. Let's discuss some of the most popular ways people are scammed and ways to avoid them.

DON'T WESTERN UNION

Never wire transfer funds to anyone you do not know for a puppy. A puppy scammer can tell you that his name is Joshua Wilkinberry and have a matching fake ID with that name to go pick-up the money. If you are purchasing site unseen, use a financial tool that requires a SSN or EIN to use i.e., Zelle (my favorite) PayPal, bank-to-bank transfer, credit/debit cards.

DO A QUICK BUSINESS SEARCH

1. Google: Google the business name and read the reviews.

2. Facebook: Facebook has a lot of breed specific dog communities. Ask your Facebook community about the breeder/business you are researching.

3. Better Business Bureau: If you are dealing with a real business it will appear. Even if there aren't any ratings, you will know the business is not a scam.

4. Instagram: #Hashtag can be used in more ways than one. Lookup the business with a simple # to see if you find anything negative or, even better, something positive!

5. Website: Research the ownership of the website.

PLAY IT SAFE ONLINE SHOPPING

1. Puppyfind.com: Avoid any breeder that doesn't have a paid account. To know, do not pay for an account yourself. If you cannot see all of the details with a free account, that puppy is not for you.

2. Craigslist: You will almost never find an expensive dog advertised