- Know and understand the breed you are looking for. Do your homework so you are informed and knowledgeable on what you should and should not be looking for when choosing a specific breed.
- Never send money for a deposit without seeing the companion animal.
- If a person claims that an animal has received shots or vaccines, get a complete copy of the vet records and the name of the vet. Follow up with this vet's office to ensure this information is valid and all of the required shots have been given.
- Never meet someone in a parking lot. This may seem obvious but scammers may try to do all transactions in a general location such as a parking lot so you cannot see where the companion animals are kept.
- Request to see the animal's parents. If you are dealing with a reputable breeder, they will be glad to show you the parents so you can confirm the purity of the breed.
- Never purchase a dog that is claimed to be AKC-registered without having the proper paperwork. If they claim they will mail you the paperwork, don't trust them. Unless you leave with the paperwork in your hands, you have no way to prove the information they say is true.
- Ask for references from previous buyers. Contact a few people who have dealt with this person before and see what their experiences were like.
The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building loving relationships between people and pets. Founded 112 years ago, it is the largest and most-established "no-kill" animal welfare agency in the area. It focuses on pet adoptions, eliminating pet overpopulation, providing education and ensuring the humane treatment of animals. For more information about the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, call (937) 268-PETS (7387) or visit www.hsdayton.org http://www.hsdayton.org.