Animal scams: What you need to know
If you’re thinking of adopting an animal or acquiring a new furry friend from someone online, there are a few things to remember to protect yourself before making that important decision.
Adopt
The safest way to add a new furry friend to your family is by adopting from a reputable organization. There are thousands of homeless animals in shelters across Canada, so you will also be giving an animal in need a second chance.
At the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, you can view our animals currently available for adoption and read their bios to see if you think they would be the perfect match for you and your lifestyle. With 12 animal centres across the province, we have many animals ready to become a beloved member of your family.
Consider visiting your local animal centre today to change the life of an animal.
Ask lots of questions!
Remember to ask about where the animal has come from. Ask about any veterinary care they may have received, and the name of the veterinarian who has examined or treated the animal. Make sure the individual or organization you are dealing with has vaccination certificates, proof of de-worming and a general health assessment in writing from their veterinarian. You should be able to verify these yourself directly with the veterinary office.
All animals adopted through the Ontario SPCA are vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and microchipped before they go to their new home. This ensures they start their new life healthy and protected. These essential services are part of the adoption package, so you can focus on welcoming your new family member without any worry.
Always meet in advance, and safely!
You should always meet the prospective pet, and its parents (human and animal) in person. There have been incidences of people renting Airbnbs to stage animals in a nice, clean home setting to hide that they’ve come from a puppy mill or poor housing condition.
Always meet at the person’s property (take someone along for safety), never in a parking lot or other unsafe area, and do not allow them to come to your home. You want to see that the animals are being raised or cared for in a clean, safe environment, that they are receiving good care, and that the animals are bright, alert and responsive.
Puppies and kittens should be playful and have lots of energy. If a breeder will not show you their facilities, or let you see the animal’s parents, these may be warning signs of an issue. A reputable breeder will never have a problem letting you see how their animals are raised. A good breeder cares about the animals and wants them to go to a good home.
You should also meet the animal first when adopting to ensure that their temperament and needs fit your lifestyle. Ontario SPCA staff are always happy to answer any questions you may have and support you along the adoption process.
Payment
Payment options should be limited to cash with a receipt. Never give out your banking information or agree to large deposits in advance. If someone says they need a deposit to hold an animal for you before you meet them, this is another red flag. Just let them know that you are not comfortable with this arrangement, and a reputable breeder should be open to discussing other options with you.
If payment is being done via e-transfer, treat it like cash and only send once you have acquired your new furry friend.
Additional resources
If you have any concerns relating to abuse or neglect, report it to 1-833-9ANIMAL (1-833-926-4625).
If you are concerned that you may be the victim of a scam, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca
If you aren’t sure whether you want to adopt or find a breeder, read our blog on why adopting from the Ontario SPCA is the perfect choice. Remember to check your local Ontario SPCA animal centre, SPCA, humane society or rescue for animals who may need a second chance. For a list of Ontario SPCA animal centres, visit our community directory.
To view our animals currently available for adoption, visit ontariospca.ca/adopt.