Stop Pet Scammers in West Texas and Protect Your Heart and Wallet

Beware of Pet Scammers Operating in West Texas: What You Need to Know

The holidays are a time for family, joy, and new beginnings, including adding a furry friend to your household. However, it’s also a time when pet scammers ramp up their game, preying on those of us looking for a beloved companion. As someone who has navigated the challenges of finding the perfect pet for my family, I want to share an important warning and some heartfelt advice to help protect you from becoming a victim.

A Personal Experience with Pet Scams

This past Valentine’s Day, I set out to find a specific breed of dog for my wife. She had been missing our first dog, the one we adopted together after getting married, and I wanted to surprise her with a Golden Retriever. However, as I explored options online, I quickly learned how risky it can be to purchase pets from unknown sources.

In the back of my mind, I kept hearing the words of my friend John Riggins, Executive Director of the Abilene Better Business Bureau (BBB):
"You better know before you go. Get all the information and know who you're dealing with."

Thankfully, I turned to trusted local resources like Rescue the Animals Abilene and the All Kind Animal Initiative to find a loving and legitimate pet for my wife. But not everyone is so lucky.

How Pet Scammers Operate

According to the BBB, pet scammers often create professional-looking websites or social media profiles, advertising purebred puppies or high-demand breeds like Shih Tzus, French Mastiffs, Labradoodles, and Golden Retrievers. These “breeders” request a deposit or full payment up front. Once they receive your money, they vanish, puppy and all.

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Red Flags of Pet Scams:

• Prices that seem too good to be true.
• Pressure to send money quickly, often via wire transfer or payment apps.
• Sellers who won’t allow you to meet the animal in person or provide a video call to verify its existence.
• Suspicious or incomplete paperwork.

Protect Yourself When Adopting a Pet

John Riggins and the BBB recommend several steps to avoid falling victim to pet scams:

1. Adopt or purchase locally: Visit breeders or shelters in person to ensure the legitimacy of the transaction.
2. Verify medical records: Cross-check documents with reputable organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC).
3. Research the seller: Use resources like BBB.org/ScamTracker to verify reviews and complaints.
4. Trust your instincts: If something feels off, walk away. A legitimate seller will not rush or pressure you.

Support Your Community and Adopt Locally

West Texas is fortunate to have wonderful organizations like Rescue the Animals Abilene and the All Kind Animal Initiative. Not only do they provide loving homes for animals in need, but they also offer peace of mind to families by ensuring that every pet is healthy, cared for, and legitimate. By adopting from these shelters, you can avoid the risks of online scams while supporting local efforts to improve animal welfare.

As John Riggins wisely advises:
"Know who you're dealing with and what you're doing before making any transactions. If you’re unsure, the Better Business Bureau is here to help."

This holiday season, don’t let scammers dampen your joy. Stay informed, do your homework, and consider adopting from local shelters. You’ll not only gain a loyal companion but also make a meaningful difference in the life of an animal.

For more tips and scam updates, visit BBB.org. Let’s keep our community, and our furry friends, safe and happy this holiday season.

Know Before You Go