Protect Yourself From Pet Buying Scams in Missouri

Adding a four-legged friend to your family is a big decision, and with the holidays approaching, many people are considering doing just that. Not only is this a major commitment for Missouri families, but there’s also an important warning for potential new pet owners during this time of year: scammers.

Popular Breeds Targeted by Scammers

Breeds that are popular right now, such as French Bulldogs, Dachshunds, and German Shepherds, are often the ones scammers use to lure prospective pet owners into giving them money.

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How Scammers Trick Pet Buyers

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has reported that scammers create fake websites and social media posts to trick people into buying these dogs (among others). They use stolen photos from other websites to make their posts and ads appear legitimate. These scams often make expensive breeds seem "affordable," enticing buyers to hand over money without ever receiving a pet.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Scams

Hundreds of dollars have been lost to these scams by people who thought they were getting a great deal on a pet, only to end up with nothing. The BBB recommends several steps to protect yourself: see the pet in person before sending any money, use reverse image searches to check the pet photos online, and understand the market prices for the breed you’re interested in. Deep discounts can be a red flag that something isn’t right.

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Most importantly, consider adopting from a local shelter. There are countless animals in need of loving homes, and adopting not only gives you peace of mind about the pet’s background but also supports your community. I proudly support the "adopt before you shop" approach. It’s a safe, responsible, and compassionate way to bring a new furry friend into your family.