Learn methods to keep away from the heartbreak of puppy scams this vacation season.
MICHIGAN—This 12 months, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Humane Society of the United States are partnering collectively to warn Michiganders of puppy scams during the holiday season.
Consumers within the US spend more than $1 billion buying puppies yearly with out realizing they could be doing business with scammers, puppy mill operators, or each.
“Scammers are looking for any way to take advantage of consumers during the holidays and puppies are unfortunately not exempt,” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel stated in a press launch. “While many people may be eager to give a furry friend during this time, I urge residents to be vigilant in their search to avoid being scammed.”
If you’re seeking to undertake a furry buddy this vacation season, Nessel recommends staying hyper-vigilant and following these best practices:
- Make certain the person you’re gifting the pet to desires the pet and is prepared for possession.
- Research the breed and breeder.
- If the breeder claims to have registered the puppy, analysis the pet.
- Do not buy a pet with out seeing/inspecting the pet first.
- Arrange for protected transport of the pet.
- Use a bank card to make the acquisition.
- Retain all paperwork and communications from the breeder.
- Consider contacting your native shelter for adoption.
“For families looking to confidently adopt a happy, healthy pet, we encourage folks to skip pet stores and online sellers and visit one of our state’s many shelters or rescues, which are full of animals looking for their forever homes,” stated Michigan State Director for the Humane Society of the United States Blake Goodman within the press launch.
Michigan customers who consider they’ve been victims of a puppy rip-off can file a complaint online with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection team.
For extra info on puppy scams in Michigan, go to Michigan.gov/consumerprotection.
