GSPCA: Beware of online pet scammers
REPORTS of ‘unscrupulous individuals’ deceiving hopeful pet owners have reached the GSPCA, which has warned against online scammers.
False advertisements of puppies, cats and other furry friends raised alarm bells for the animal welfare charity.
Locating a new pet is made more difficult during the pandemic because would-be owners cannot verify if the animal exists nor its temperament or quality of welfare.
‘We are extremely concerned about reports of people falsely advertising animals online to try and deceive people looking for a new pet out of their money,’ said Steve Byrne of the GSPCA.
Facebook advertisements for puppies are particularly worrying – ‘Which either may not exist or could be from puppy farms or backgrounds that are not ideal for the animal’s welfare.’
Up to 500 Guernsey households are thought to look for new dogs and cats yearly. With travel restrictions, many try digital options.
‘There are scammers out there trying to deceive good people out of money with false adverts online.’
Advice is available at the GSPCA, the Pet Advertising Advisory Group, the Kennel Club and Association of Dogs and Cats Homes.
Mr Byrne said thousands of island social media users follow pages selling animals, yet some are fraudulent charities which try to sell non-existent animals to swindle buyers. ‘So it is extremely important to verify who you are dealing with before you part with any money.’
Referral by a friend or vet is often the best way, he said.
A dent was put in the illegal pet trade five years ago when 25 Slovakian puppies being transported to a UK dealer from puppy farms were intercepted locally.
Animal welfare manager Lorna Chadwick said: ‘If anyone has any concerns about animal cruelty, neglect or false advertising, please do report it to us. If you’re thinking of getting a puppy, it’s important to do your homework first.’
10-step guide created by animal welfare groups is available when adopting pets, or alternatively many animals need rescuing at the GSPCA.
To report suspected animal cruelty or attend puppy training, email lorna@gspca.org.gg or call 257261.
For adoption advice visit either PAAG at: paag.org.uk/how-to-buy-a-pet/ or ADCH at: www.adch.org.uk or the Kennel Club at: www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/find-a-puppy/.
To rescue an animal visit: www.gspca.org.gg/animals.
