**Sharp Increase in Puppy Purchase Scams Sparks Urgent Public Warning**
A surge in fraudulent puppy sales has prompted financial and animal welfare experts to urge caution among anyone considering buying a puppy online, as scams continue to rob victims of thousands of pounds and cause significant emotional upset. The rise in pet fraud – particularly involving fake puppy advertisements – is leaving families heartbroken and out of pocket, as thieves exploit the high demand for pets, especially since the pandemic.
Recent figures from Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, reveal a 24% rise in pet fraud cases throughout 2023 compared with the year before. Concerningly, experts warn this figure only looks set to climb, with ever more sophisticated scams appearing across online marketplaces and social media platforms.
Scammers often impersonate legitimate breeders, producing professional-looking listings or constructing websites using stolen images and testimonials to promote adorable puppies for sale. The fraudulent sellers then demand deposits, or additional fees such as delivery and insurance charges, before abruptly severing all contact, leaving would-be pet owners without a puppy and their money.
While Action Fraud reports that the average individual loss is around £307, legal professionals involved in fraud recovery cases indicate that some victims have parted with thousands of pounds with nothing in return. Paul Hampson, director at CEL Solicitors, pointed out the often devastating impact these scams are having on those targeted. “Getting a puppy should be a happy and exciting time,” Mr Hampson explained, “but too often, buyers are left crushed when the dog they’ve paid for doesn’t exist.”
He went on to note how fraudsters are adept at exploiting their targets’ emotions. “These scams are calculated and heartless – scammers will use cute photos, create a sense of urgency with promises of quick deliveries, and then disappear after they’ve been paid. Sadly, this has become even more common since the coronavirus lockdown, when demand for pets soared.”
Many of the cases originate from online marketplaces where fraudulent sellers pressure potential buyers with aggressive sales tactics. Examples include insisting that others are interested, urging buyers to act fast, or asking for payment via untraceable means such as wire transfers or gift cards. In some cases, multiple fake accounts have been used to add false legitimacy to the scam through phoney comments and reviews.
Paul Hampson advised, “Watch out for vague or hastily-written advertisements, and always question any seller who won’t provide appropriate documentation such as veterinary records or pedigree proof. If they’re hesitant or refuse, consider that a very clear red flag.” CEL Solicitors, which has assisted people in retrieving lost funds, recommends always meeting a seller in person or requesting a live video call with the puppy before paying. They also stressed never to use unsecured payment options.
To mitigate the risk of falling victim, prospective owners should consider rehoming through reputable animal charities such as Dogs Trust, the RSPCA, or Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, none of which require advance payments. Alternatively, genuine Kennel Club-approved breeders can be found through accredited registers, and these breeders are subject to stricter checks and standards.
CEL Solicitors further suggests that if someone believes they have been caught out by a scam, they should notify both their bank and Action Fraud immediately. It’s also vital to report the seller’s information to whichever platform hosted the scam, and seeking professional legal advice may increase the chance of recovering lost money.
As online pet sales continue to grow, experts remind buyers to stay alert: “Trust your instincts – if a deal seems too good to be true, or something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to walk away.” By choosing recognised channels or rescue organisations, the risk of heartbreak and financial loss can be dramatically reduced, ensuring the process of bringing a dog home is both safe and rewarding.