How to Stay Safe When Looking for a Puppy Online
When browsing through online classifieds such as Craigslist or Kijiji, you've likely come across multiple listings advertising "puppies for sale." While these platforms may seem like the common place online to buy a puppy, there are several problems when seeking out dogs in this way.
It can be confusing to know whether the seller is a responsible breeder versus running a puppy mill or running unintentional breeding programs. Accounts can be made on a whim on these sites, so understanding if someone is legitimate is a huge safety factor. So, it’s essential to do your research to ensure you make the best choice.
Be Wary of Online Dog Scams
The Canadian Kennel Club advises that puppy scams are on the rise, and since the start of the pandemic, Canadians have lost thousands of dollars to online scams. While many responsible breeders do advertise their puppies on Kijiji and Craigslist, these platforms are also used by scammers looking to take advantage of your love for puppies. When searching for puppies online, keep the following five factors in mind.
1. Don’t Always Be Fooled by Fancy Websites
With so many website tools available these days, many scammers will design fancy and professional looking sites to increase their credibility when advertising their puppies online. For this reason, we recommend making direct contact with sellers and ask for references before you place a deposit or commit to a sale. Ask for original photos from today and inquire about whether the mom is on site.
2. Is the Advert a Duplicate Listing?
One strategy dog scammers take is to copy and paste listings from other sites or use stock photos in their ads. It’s often difficult to distinguish genuine ads from fake ads, so it’s always best to communicate directly with the seller using phone or video chat so you can get a better idea of who they are and what circumstances under which they are selling their puppies.
3. What Level of Communication Can You Expect?
Can you contact the seller directly on the phone, or is communication only through email? Reputable breeders will take the time to speak to you on the phone and may also offer a video chat so you can see the puppy you’re interested in. Unlike scammers, they actually care to assess you and understand what kind of a home one of their dogs is going to. However, fraudulent sellers are often located outside the country, posting bogus addresses online, and attempt to make limited contact via email.
4. Is the Price Too Good to Be True?
Many online scammers will offer their puppies at a lower price to attract potential pup parents to contact them. Responsible breeding is generally costly, with breeders taking important measures to ensure the health and well-being of their pups. Research the current cost of dog breeds you’re interested in and be wary of ads advertising puppies at prices that are unusually low.
5. How Will You Pay for Your Puppy?
If a seller asks you to wire large sums of money or payment in gift cards, you’re probably falling prey to a scam. You’re unlikely to get your money back with these payment methods, and while e-transfers are also common, they also carry some risk. Take the time to research the breeder, get references and referrals when you can, and book a visit before sending money to avoid a scam.
Checklist for Avoiding Scams When Looking for a Puppy Online
Educate yourself to be asking the tough questions
Get breeder referrals from friends and family
Be extra cautious when “shopping” for a puppy through online classifieds
Speak directly to the breeder via phone and video chat
Ask for references
Visit the breeder and view the puppy where possible
Don’t wire money, e-transfer or pay with gift cards
Connect with Thoughtful and Reputable Dog Breeders Online
Our goal at Paction is to help you stay safe by connecting you with Pup Providers across Canada. Our dog breeders are fully verified and payments are made through 3rd party payment platform Stripe, to ensure you feel safe when completing transactions online. If you would like to connect with a Pup Provider in your area or have questions about our service, reach out to us today!
