Are you looking for a new furry friend but concerned about falling for a puppy scam? Unfortunately, puppy scams are on the upswing, so you must take precautions to keep yourself safe. We’ve compiled a list of advice and suggestions to remember when looking for your new puppy to prevent getting scammed.
1. Do your homework
Do your homework before you start looking for a new puppy. Look at their sites and online entertainment pages to understand their reputation. Find breeders who have received positive feedback and recommendations from other pet owners
2. Don’t fall for too-good-to-be-true deals
If a breeder offers a puppy for a significantly lower price than other breeders in the area, it’s probably too good to be true. Be cautious of breeders offering puppies for free or at an incredibly low price, as they may be trying to scam you.
Check for licensing and certifications
Reputable breeders will have the appropriate credentials. If the breeder is licensed, verify their current license by contacting the licensing authority. You can also check if the puppies are registered by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA).
3. Ask for references
Request references from other pet owners who have bought puppies from the breeder. Be sure to contact these references to find out how they felt about the breeder.
5. Be wary of breeders who won’t answer questions
If a breeder is unwilling to answer your questions or becomes defensive when you ask them, it’s a red flag. Reputable breeders are proud of their puppies and will happily answer your questions. Finding reputable puppy breeders can be difficult; you can find KUSA-registered puppies from these dog breeders.
