Beware of shopping for puppies online; Veterinary group says pet scams are rife, especially in Texas – CBS Dallas / Fort Worth

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Thinking of adding a furry family member this holiday season?

Experts say you should be wary of buying a pet online.

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A new study from Veterinarians.org shows that scams involving pets, especially involving puppies, are rampant, especially since the onset of COVID-19.

Texas ranked second in the country.

“A lot of people were turning to animals as a form of therapy,” said Lily Velez, author of the Puppy Scam Report. “And unfortunately, many crooks saw an opportunity to set up these scam puppy sites.”

Ron Dunbar learned this after thinking he picked the perfect puppy for his wife on braveshihtzu.com.

“And then the next day I actually spoke to [the seller] on the phone for a long time, ”he said.

It wasn’t until he had shelled out thousands of dollars that he realized there was no puppy.

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“I’m not proud of it, but I lost $ 4,680,” he said.

The Better Business Bureau said the number of victims is increasing daily.

They have recorded nearly 300 reports so far this year in Texas, costing victims more than $ 225,000.

“A lot of times these are just stock photos, and the animal you’re looking at doesn’t even exist,” said Amy Rasor, Ft. Worth Regional Director with the Better Business Bureau.

Velez said a red flag is if the seller won’t let you see the puppy – or at least provide time-stamped photos and videos.

She says another is if the seller requests electronic payment or a gift card, and if the breeder cannot provide a medical record, American Kennel Club certification, or information about the puppy’s parents.

And a way to ensure that your new best friend is real? Adopt from a shelter or rescue group.

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“A lot of these places still have animals looking for homes. And that gives you the ability to interact with the animal in person to make sure it’s a perfect fit for your household, ”said Velez.