A Morongo Basin resident was recently the victim of another type of scam, in which he was going to get a free puppy from Arizona if he just paid for a shipping crate. After sending a money order to the puppy’s owner, the buyer received another email that the dog became sick and the buyer needed additional money to pay the vet bills. The buyer became suspicious and contacted the Sheriff’s department, who told him he was the victim of a scam. Managing editor Tami Roleff offers the following tips to avoid being the victim of a similar scam when buying puppies online…
Look very closely at the website or online ad. Scammers steal photos of puppies and dogs, as well as text, from legitimate websites and try to pass off them as their own. Ask to see other photos, such as when the dog was younger, or in different angles or locations. Phone the breeder and talk to her personally about the puppy, the puppy’s parents, and her breed. The breeder should have had clearances done on the parents to make sure they are healthy enough to breed. Ask about the clearances and ask to see copies of them. If the breeder can’t answer any of your questions satisfactorily, or insists on payment with a money order, look elsewhere for your dog. The best way to buy a dog is from your local animal shelter, or from a breeder who is recommended to you by someone you know.
Reporting for Z107.7, this is managing editor Tami Roleff.
