Puppy scam alert

Ads for puppies on sites and social media lure buyers with polished listings that often prove to be non existent.

Puppy scam dupes buyers with fake listings

Online ads for puppies appear across pet marketplaces, classifieds, and social media. While some listings are genuine, others describe litters that do not exist. Buyers may pay a deposit after a phone or video call, only to find the seller disappears or gives a flimsy excuse. In a widely cited UK case, Kate Margolis paid £500 for a golden retriever that never arrived and later vanished.

Experts advise buyers to use reputable adoption charities or breeders. The Kennel Club in the UK has ended its Approved Breeder programme, so buyers must do their own research. A reverse image search can reveal stolen photos. Ask for full paperwork, vet records, and proof of microchip. Always arrange an in person visit with the mother before paying. Do not pay to hold a puppy. Margolis later helped launch Petproov to help verify IDs and documents.

Online pet ads prey on emotions. Scammers use polished websites, quick replies, and social proof to rush a decision. The case in the article shows how a strong-looking setup can hide an absent animal and a vanished refund.

Beyond individual cases, the piece points to a need for better verification tools, clearer marketplace policies, and consumer education. Tech solutions like Petproov signal a market response, while policy shifts by groups such as the Kennel Club highlight gaps in formal oversight. The central question is how markets balance the desire to find a loving pet with safeguards against fraud.

Highlights

Consumers should stay vigilant as online pet markets evolve.