JACKSON, Tenn. — Pet scams are on the rise this holiday season.
Scammers frequently capitalize on high demands during the holidays by posting pictures of pets in Christmas hats and other gear. When a would-be pet parent pursues the listing, the scammer refuses to let the consumer meet the pet before buying.
The scammer claims that they must use a pet delivery agency of some kind, often an airline. The scammer also may demand fees for vaccinations or other last-minute ‘needs.’
Ultimately, the pet does not exist and the consumer has lost money and emotional investment.
Make sure that you’re looking over everything, not accidentally clicking on links, and like I said, if anything comes across as skeptical, or you’re not sure about it, you can always contact us at the Better Business Bureau. We’re not just here to help you after the fact, but we’re here to help you before the fact as well,” said Toddnetta Trice, communications specialist with the Better Business Bureau.
The largest group of victims by age are those 25-35, followed by those 35-44. The average financial loss reported to scam tracker was more than $1,000. While 82% of pet scam reports involved dogs, other reports included cats, birds and iguanas.
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