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How do you not get scammed when buying a puppy online?

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How do you not get scammed when buying a puppy online?

How to avoid pet scams

  1. Contact rescue groups for the breed you want. They may have a pet for you or be able to recommend a breeder.
  2. Know typical prices and avoid deeply discounted or “free” pets, which can suggest fraud or a puppy mill.
  3. Visit the breeder.
  4. Expect the breeder to ask you questions.

How do you know if your getting scammed buying a puppy?

10 Signs of Puppy Scams

  • The Price is Fantastic!
  • Discounted or Negotiable Prices.
  • The Dog is Free (But You Pay for Shipping)
  • No Refunds, Return or Warranties Against Health Issues.
  • You Cannot Contact the Seller by Phone.
  • Price Increases After Deposit.
  • Refund Upon Receipt.
  • Sad, Sad, Sad Story.

Is it safe to buy a puppy online?

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That’s why, in the US, the ASPCA and the Humane Society both say you should never buy a puppy online. The International Pet and Animal Transportation Association explains: “Pet scam criminals use free websites, Craig’s List, local newspapers, or Facebook to advertise pets that do not exist.”

What is the safest way to buy a puppy?

The safest way to find a puppy is not to source your puppy through an online advertising website. Seek recommendations from your local vet, approach local dog clubs, look for established breeders with a proven history and good reputation, or consider getting your puppy or dog from a re-homing centre.

How do you know if a puppy website is real?

What are the Red Flags?

  1. No phone calls. The seller prefers to handle communication by email and not the phone.
  2. Copycat or stock photos. Photos of the dog or ad text can be found on multiple websites.
  3. Sketchy payment. The seller asks for wiring of money or payment by gift cards.
  4. Price is too good to be true.

How do you know if an online breeder is legit?

Ask if the breeder is a member of an AKC-affiliated club and contact that club to verify membership or check recent listings of available AKC Litters from breeders. You can also check with the BBB (www.bbb.org) and the AKC (919-233-9767) to see if there are any complaints about the breeder.

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How do I report a puppy scammer?

If you suspect, or have been victimized by, a pet scam, report it to: the Federal Trade Commission (online or at 877-382-4357). the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), if the scam occurred online. the BBB Scam Tracker.

How can I find a dog breeder online?

The easiest and most convenient way to find a breeder and the right dog for you is through www.akc.org. The AKC web site offers potential puppy buyers access to a wealth of information on buying a dog, selecting a breeder, and dog care.

Does PuppySpot use puppy mills?

PuppySpot is most likely using puppy mills. Designer mixes can’t come from anything but a puppy mill. They come from cheap or free dogs of both breeds with no health testing.

Is Paypal safe for buying a puppy?

Unfortunately for many, buying a puppy online lands them as victims of these trending scams. Buyer sends over payment for the puppy and shipping via Paypal, Venmo, etc. to the “breeder”. The “breeder” will then either contact the Buyer for more money because of unforeseen extra costs.

Should I be worried about buying a dog online?

Do warn your kids and grandkids. An unusually high proportion of victims of online pet scams are in their late teens or 20s, according to the BBB. Do consider adopting from a local shelter or rescue group, instead of buying a pet online. You can look up adoptable animals near you at Petfinder and the Shelter Pet Project.

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How many people have been scammed for puppies?

BBB ScamTracker has 907 reports on this type of fraud and a Federal Trade Commission report found some 37,000 complaints involving pets. A vast majority of those were believed to be puppy sale scams.

How do you know if someone is scamming you for puppies?

If they seem anxious to complete the sale or get your deposit as soon as possible, or if you feel like they are pushing you to make a quick decision regarding a puppy, be careful. Such behavior is often a warning sign that the person you are dealing with is actually a scammer, and there is no puppy.

Are you looking for a pet on the Internet?

If you are looking for a pet to add to your family, be on the lookout for scams. As more consumers turn to the internet to find new pets, more scams are popping up online. Experts say a shocking 80\% of sponsored advertisements about pets may be fake.