Online pet scams are increasing around the state. The Better Business Bureau recommends several steps to avoid getting scammed.
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By Joe Ducey | Better Business Bureay
She wanted a Chihuahua puppy and thought she found it online.
The woman paid half of the $425 price, and would pay the other half when she received the dog.
It seemed fair. Then she got the texts.
The shipping company needed $800 for a special shipping crate.
The insurer demanded $1,000 for in transit pet protection.
Overnight puppy nanny care would cost $450.
She paid it all with cash and gift cards.
When the woman smelled a scam and wanted a refund, the “breeder” wanted $1,200 more to start that process.
She paid it all. There was no puppy. She lost $3,800.
Better Business Bureau ScamTracker shows online scam pet sellers taking thousands from eager buyers excited to bring home a cute pet at a great price.
The American Kennel Club says the majority of online pet sellers are scams.
And the scams seem to work the same way: low advertised price followed by many undisclosed fees.
A Chandler woman says “they kept asking for more and more money after saying we were done paying for stuff.” She lost $2,100.
Many of the complaints point to two big scam warning signs: They’re asked to pay with gift cards or cryptocurrency and they are never allowed to see the pet in person.
If you’re looking for a pet online:
Research the breeder/business name and look for accredited breeders at bbb.org.
Run a general online search for complaints. If you can’t find the name or there are no reviews, beware.
Talk to the seller and see the pet in person. If that’s not possible, demand a live video call to do it.
Do not send money through wire transfer, gift cards or cash apps. Use a credit card for and follow up to make sure it was not misused.
If you’re concerned about a website, conduct a reverse image online search of pet pictures. If they show up on multiple sites, it’s likely a fraud.
And consider a visit to your local animal shelter first.
The American Kennel Club allows you to search for breeds and locations at its marketplace website. https://marketplace.akc.org/
See all the latest scams on the Better Business Bureau's YouTube channel.
If you lost money in a scam, contact your local police and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
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