It’s that time of year to remind people about the yearly pet scams that pop up just as spring arrives. Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich says every year we learn about con-artists taking advantage of consumers through internet pet scams. Sometimes they post fake ads for pets that do not exist or they sell a pet that turns out to be very sick. Arizonans need to do their due diligence before buying a pet, especially online. Tips include: 1. If a seller asks you to pay via wire transfer or gift card, beware—it is nearly impossible to recover money sent through these methods. 2. Before you choose a pet, do your best to visit the breeder’s operation to see the operation and the pet in person. 3. Ask questions and ensure the breeder has veterinary paperwork for the specific pet on the letterhead of his or her veterinarian. Call the veterinarian independently to verify the relationship. 4. Consider adopting from a local animal shelter where pets are vaccinated and checked for medical conditions by a veterinarian.
