The 26th August is National Dog Day!
With the demand for dogs pet fraud is at an all time high, Trading Standards are urging families to be careful when sourcing a puppy or dog.
Buyers are paying deposits for puppies they have not been able to view, before being asked for more money to cover microchipping, vaccination and insurance. They then make the heartbreaking discovery that the puppy they are waiting for doesnt exist. These scams are operating on social media, online market places and pet specific selling sites
How to protect yourself:
- Do your research – is it too good to be true? Are they a registered breeder?
- Trust your instincts – report any suspicious adverts
- Be careful with payment methods – bank transfers have little protection in the event of fraud
Please visit Action Fraud for more advice: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/petfraud
if you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.