Who doesn't love puppies and kittens?! It is not uncommon to see an advertisement or social media post for pure breed puppies or kittens for sale at a too good to be true price.
Sadly this is how the pet scam usually begins... you see a post on a puppy breed in another city or state for sale or needing "rehoming" and all you the new pet owner needs to do is pay the rehoming or relocation fee by Western Union or a Moneygram! Below are a few tips and tricks to use to avoid becoming a victim of a pet scam.
1. Payment is done by Western Union, Moneygram or ask for a prepaid credit card. Unless you have done business or know the person don't use this as a form of payment. There is a reason WHY credit cards allow you to do a chargeback this is to protect you from unauthorized charges or scams. If this is not a form of payment a pet seller is willing to accept take your business elsewhere.
2. You are told the move is being handled by a pet relocation company. Most pet relocation companies DO NOT buy or sell pets! They will assist you with relocation your pet some will even assist you with a rescue from a shelter. But pet relocation companies usually focus on moving your pet across town, across the country or internationally.
Hint: The "website" is a copy of an actual business' website with fake contact information. It is recommended to actually look up the online and go to the company's website to find the actual contact information.
3. The scammers will usually have a gmail, yahoo or another free email account. These accounts are easy to get and change which is WHY pet scammers like to use them. It might look something like "fakecomapanyname@gmail.com". Most companies will make the effort to have a proper email account set up.
4. You can't see the pet in person. This is going to be a new family member it is recommended to check out where your pet is coming from. If you are not able to do so maybe find a pet closer to you.
Trust your gut! If something feels off then find another option, there are millions of adoptable pets all over the world you will find your right pet match!
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