By Jamie Martin
The convenience of online shopping has encouraged many families to look for puppies and pets on the internet, but this has also opened the door to sophisticated scams. The Indiana State Board of Animal Health reports rising cases in which people lose thousands of dollars to fake listings. Many of these scams use stolen photos, social media posts, or polished websites that appear trustworthy but advertise pets that do not exist.
Transportation fraud is one of the most common tricks. After a buyer agrees to take a pet, the scammer claims new fees have appeared during shipping. These may include extra charges for special crates, travel permits, or emergency care. Scammers often say the pet is stuck at a stop-over location and cannot continue the journey until the buyer pays more. In reality, government agencies do not charge such fees for moving pets within the United States.
To protect themselves, buyers should thoroughly research any breeder or rescue organization. Checking contact details, licenses, reviews, and customer references can help determine if a seller is legitimate. Meeting the puppy, the breeder, and the puppy’s parents in person offers the strongest assurance. Talking to past buyers or asking a veterinarian for referrals can also guide families toward reputable breeders.
Sellers asking for wire transfers, gift cards, or overseas payments should be avoided immediately. These payment methods cannot be traced and are a major warning sign of fraud. Families should also be cautious of “free pet” offers, which are often used to trick buyers into paying shipping fees for animals that do not exist.
Choosing breeders or rescues within driving distance is the safest option. It allows the family to meet the animal and pick it up themselves, reducing stress for both the pet and the owner while eliminating shipping scams.
If consumers notice odd phrasing, spelling mistakes, or suspicious behavior during virtual communication, they should proceed carefully. Those targeted by scams should report the incident to the Indiana Attorney General’s Office.
With careful research and awareness, families can enjoy the excitement of adopting a new pet without falling victim to online fraud.
Photo Credit: E-plus-photo
Categories: National