Thinking of getting a pet this holiday? Watch out for scammers

If you’re planning on adding a furry friend to your family this holiday season, make sure to do your research first as scammers may try to trick you.

According to the Better Business Bureau, 80% of sponsored pet advertisements may in fact be fake, and the New York State Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection says pet scams tend to start with online ads featuring a picture of the animal and advertise a low price. Some even offer to deliver the pet to the airport or your doorstep for you. However, once the scammer gets the payment, you don’t get the pet and the seller disappears into thin air.

“While many of us may dream of a magical holiday with the addition of a furry or feathered family member, consumers must be vigilant against scams or they’ll end up out of cash and without a puppy,” Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said. “To protect yourself and your loved ones from losing out on a special moment this holiday, make sure you know the warning signs of a potential pet scam and always do your research before exchanging money for a new animal companion.”

Here’s what to know.

Where can I adopt or buy a pet in NY?

You can adopt or purchase a pet from any of these places in New York, according to the state’s Division of Consumer Protection:

• Animal shelters, humane societies, animal rescues or other not-for-profit organizations
• By direct purchase from small pet breeders (those who sell less than 25 pets per year)
• By direct purchase from licensed pet dealers, which includes pet breeders who sell more than 25 pets per year