BBB shines a light on National Puppy Day scams

Thursday was National Puppy Day. A chance to pamper our special four legged friends. It was also an opportunity for scammers to take advantage of people who are looking to purchase a precious pooch. That’s according to staff from the Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay.

Wes Lafortune, the media and communications specialist with the BBB, says even though puppy scams have slipped from their peak during the pandemic, they still hear from people who say they have been victims to this online fraud.

“Since 2017 the median loss in cash is actually around $850. For some people, it ends up translating to about, you know, thousands of dollars, actually. So so that’s why we want to bring attention to this and really bring attention to just anytime people are shopping or purchasing something online to use good habits, which include doing your research, checking with friends and family. What was their experience? Getting references in relation to a puppy, actually visiting the breeder, if you can. Again, making sure they have all their licenses and they’re reputable people.”

Lafortune says the scam involves a website showcasing a puppy that does not really exist. The money is sent, including a deposit, and then you never see the funds again.

If you want to report a scam you can visit https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker