Con Artists Scam Puppy Lovers
Con artists are playing on the heartstrings of dog lovers to scam money. The thieves post online ads featuring pictures of adorable purebred puppies for sale at a very reasonable cost. But after buying the pet, consumers get taken for thousands in bogus fees—and never get the dog.
Denver resident Kellie Bohrer found a Siberian Husky selling for $320. She contacted the sellers, who sent her more pictures and a registration certificate. But then, she says, “The agency called and said that we needed to give them $1600,” for insurance, which they said was refundable once the puppy arrived safely to Bohrer. “We waited for the puppy. We didn’t get anything.”
After getting more emails claiming the puppy was stuck at various airports or needing vaccinations, all of which cost more money. After spending $3000, Bohrer sensed something was wrong. She checked with the American Pet Registry and discovered the registration documentation she had received was fake. The pet registry company reports they have received numerous complaints about this scam from people all across the United States.
FBI spokesman Dave Joly warns, “If something appears to be too good to be true, it most likely is. Treat this as a business transaction. Don’t have an emotional attachment to anything that you’re purchasing.”
If you come across any online scam, contact the FBI or go to their website for online complaints at their Internet crime complaint center. At Animaroo, we are committed to ensuring our puppies come from reputable, ethical and responsible breeders. We do the research so you don’t have to.
