Police Scotland warns those looking for a new puppy or kitten to be wary of online ‘deposit scams’ following further North East residents being defrauded.

Be mindful of paying upfront for puppies or kittens you’ve never met. Scammers will often send photos or videos, persuading potential pet owners to make a deposit or full payment in advance. They might also ask for further funds to cover ‘unforeseen costs’ such as pet insurance or vaccinations after they’ve made the initial payment.

Scammers often offer incentives like ‘free insurance’ or ‘puppy packs’, but this does not mean they are legitimate dealers. Do as much research as you can on the breeder and the advert. Do not send money without seeing the puppy or kitten. You should see the puppy in its own environment interacting with its mother.

What to Do 

You can never do too much research before buying a new pet. Research the seller - is their phone number or email address linked to different profiles? Are they advertising several different breeds of dog? Are they reluctant to answer questions about the puppies' mother or provide paperwork?

Make sure that you see the puppy with its mother at home, either in person or via video link. Be suspicious if the seller offers to deliver the puppy to you or meet you at a different location.

Make sure you have the relevant documentation and vaccination and microchipping records.

Don't make a rushed decision and don't pay for the puppy before you have seen it.

Avoid an impulse purchase

Try and see the puppy several times before purchasing, this allows you to build up a relationship with the breeder which should continue after purchasing the puppy. Don’t pick your puppy up from an arranged location e.g. a car park or service station. Be very careful about purchasing your puppy online. Ideally you should see a puppy several times before purchasing.

Advice on getting a puppy or kitten can be found online from national organisations and charities.

Information from the SSPCA & RSPCA on buying a puppy:  https://orlo.uk/WcRdT  &  https://orlo.uk/mESiq

Information from The Kennel Club on getting a dog: https://orlo.uk/AgwDH

#NorthEastCrimeReduction 

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.