9:12pm Monday 15th March 2010
POLICE in Somerset are warning people buying puppies to be on their guard following a number of reported scams.
The warning is aimed at those shopping through trading websites or magazines.
People have been buying dogs and puppies from companies based abroad and after transferring money into accounts no animals are received.
As well as the agreed price there will often be other hidden costs demanded to cover insurance, kennel fees and so on.
In one incident earlier this month a woman agreed to buy two puppies for £290 following an advert on a Scottish website.
The money was transferred to an address in Cameroon where their head office was and later that afternoon an email was sent asking for £1,200 for pet insurance.
At this point the victim contacted police to report a fraud.
Police are warning anyone buying animals or property, particularly when they are offered overseas, to be extremely vigilant.
PC Stephanie Mitchell said: "This is a classic scam and I would urge people to be suspicious of animals offered for sale from abroad.
“It is expensive to transport the animals abroad and be wary of anyone who is not up front about that.
“There is also never any mention of quarantine arrangements which animals are subjected to.
“The pet passport scheme only operates between European countries and, with or without a passport, there are inoculations dogs must have before travel is allowed.
"I do not want to discourage people from buying dogs though as most dog traders are very responsible.
“I would advise anyone wanting to buy a dog to use a reputable dog breeder and to seek advice from the Kennel Club if they are unsure about who they are dealing with."
Police are asking victims of scams to report them to Avon and Somerset police on 0845-4567000. Information about the people committing these scams can also be passed to the police.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800-555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org - they never ask your name or trace your call.
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