ALERT: Puppy Scams on the Rise

Lakeside Animal Hospital and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) warn all pet parents and potential pet parents to be on high alert when purchasing their additional family member this holiday season.

With more people at home due to COVID-19, adding a four-legged family member to their household is on the rise.

More and more people are purchasing pets online instead of going to pet stores or shelters to avoid large crowds. That route may cost you more than just heartache.

The BBB has seen several cases of fraud where families are promised a puppy , pay a deposit for that  puppy , and in the end, the “breeder” does not deliver what was promised.

If you are looking into purchasing your “fur-ever” family member online, please use extreme caution during these transactions, and when in doubt, visit the BBB Scam Tracker or contact your veterinarian for assistance.

The shelters are packed with amazing dogs and puppies that are looking for a “fur-ever” home to share their unconditional love with. Contact your local animal shelter or humane society to set-up a private one-on-one appointment to continue practicing social distancing during your search for your four-legged family member. Many shelters have up to date websites with all the homeless pets they have available.

Make sure to include your veterinarian in your search to not only assist with the right pet but also with the proper healthcare of your new pet.

For more information on the recent increase in puppy scams, watch this video or contact us at Lakeside Animal Hospital.