Internet Fraud

I am currently trying to find a pet through yahoo classifieds. Im not the richest guy so i am only looking at the free ads that are close to my area. So far i have only gotten people who want me to send them money for shipping and then they will send the dog. Has anyone had experience with this method of adopting a pet. Are these people trying to scam me. Any advise would be great. Thanks Ross

I actually just finished working on that myself- I was in the process of trying to find a somewhat affordable puppy. I ended up using a local breeder. DO NOT send any money whatsoever for shipping for a free dog. You will not get the dog. Only consider people who are willing to have you pick the dog up yourself- besides, it's not a great idea to not meet a dog before you get it when it's a 15+ year commitment. Every single "free" dog ad that asks for shipping is a scam. Don't waste your time. Before you have any contact with an individual about details, ask them where they are located and whether or not you can pick the dog up. If they are not local or will only ship, don't bother responding to them.

I have been going through the same thing. I wouldn't buy online but contact the breeder that is close to you and see what you can do from there. I wrote several letters to these same people and got a lot of responses but think about it why are they selling or giving these dogs away for only a shipping fee? You aren't going to get the dog. I have been looking for a puppy and think I have finally found one but the I am willing to go to the breeder who is 200 miles away, hopefully this plan will work out. I would suggest even if you look at these ads click on the links that contact the breeder and talk with them directly, those sites do post tips for good breeders and how to identify fraudulent sellers. I know exactly what you are going through look at Dogwoodkennels.com and link to the breeder on Puppyfind.com GOOD LUCK!!!!! Kim

I was looking at some of the ads. Have you noticed some of the ads have the same pup in the picture but come from different states? I wouldn't trust any ad for a free dog with a shipping fee. It is a scam and you will never see the dog. This is just like the "Parrot Eggs For Sale" scams. If you want a great pet, go to some shelters and save a life. You would be shocked by the number of pure bred dogs you will find. Not all have behavior issues and this is the time of year when many of the impulse Christmas pups that people get borded with come flooding in. Whatever your choice, I would stay away from those shadey ads that only ask for shipping!!! They are scams!

I would not use yahoo petfinder. Petfinder.com would probably be better becuase it is shelters and you can find animals in your area. Do not send money for a free dog. you won't get the dog. it's a scam. good luck