Reprinted with permission of www.whole-earth-pets.com and Alanna Parke Kvale

It’s a simple need - a furry companion to share our lives, someone to greet us when we come home each night, someone who accepts us unconditionally. And we’ll sometimes go to great lengths to secure that lovable companion.

Unfortunately, there are people out there ready and willing to take away our money and our trust. They are the pet adoption scammers.

It sounds innocuous at first. Just an ordinary person trying to find a home for their beloved family dog or cat. They tell the unwary victim how they are being transferred and simply cannot keep their much-loved animal, and how they are looking for a kind, compassionate animal lover to give their pet a good home. They’re even willing to give up the pet for free, if only you will pay the necessary shipping charges, from their location to yours. Depending on that location, this could amount to several hundred dollars. The scammer will then contact you and say that customs authorities are holding the animal at the airport at his location. They will even prey upon your kind heart by telling you that the animal is being mistreated. Then they’ll ask for additional fees, to release the animal. Keep in mind, there is no pet waiting to be adopted, it’s all part of the scam to separate you from your hard-earned money.

Another method these scammers use to get your money is to pretend they are working for a nationally known animal rescue organization. Natalia Corres, Founder of Whole Earth Pets recently exposed a would-be scammer, who claimed to be part of the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). Posing as part of a non-profit organization looking for a way to help people adopt pets, the woman began placing ads and soliciting “adoption fees” or “re-homing fees” for, as it turned out, non-existent animals.

After contacting the real Animal Rescue Foundation, Ms Corres discovered this has been going on for some time. Bobbie Thompson, of ARF says, “We’ve reported them to the Internet Crime Complaint Section of the FBI, but so far have not received anything about stopping them.”

The Center for Disease Control has also issued a warning concerning these online scammers who target people interested in adopting animals from outside the United States. The CDC urges caution when dealing with overseas adoptions.

“Pet scams have been going on for years, but they seem to have become more prevalent with the struggling economy. Scammers are taking advantage of animal lovers and SPCA International feels it is very important that people know how to spot a scam. The number one indicator of a pet scam is the insistence for you to give money upfront for vet bills, a reward, or shipping. It is truly tragic that scammers are willing to take advantage of animal lovers’ compassion,” states Stephanie Scroggs, SPCA International Director of Communications.

While there are many reliable organizations out there to help you adopt that furry companion, be cautious and know who you are dealing with, before sending your hard-earned money. Want to know where you can find that lovable pet? Ask your veterinarian or pet groomer. Check with your local SPCA chapter or go to your city’s animal shelter.

The perfect furry friend is out there waiting for you. Be careful, play it smart, and you’ll find the perfect pet to be a part of your family. Then come back to Whole Earth Petsand tell us about “your” rescue story.