As a gift, she would ask the breeder to buy “Steam” vouchers (digital vouchers) worth EUR 300 and present them with the puppy. After the breeder had purchased the vouchers, the fraudster asked the victim to send the voucher codes with a photo. Luckily, the 49-year-old became suspicious and informed the police. They are now investigating fraud.  

Tips on how to protect yourself from fraud from dubious puppy sellers:

  • Be careful with offers in online portals, classified ads and daily newspapers.
  • Do not buy dogs in shady places such as motorway service stations, backyards or similar places.
  • You should examine the purchase contract in detail and/or have it checked by a professional, especially if payments are to be made in advance.
  • The seller's personal details should be recorded or photographed using an identity document.
  • Buyers of animals should pay close attention to the appearance and behavior of the puppy and, if possible, have seen the mother.
  • The dogs may only be handed over when they are at least 8 weeks old.
    Dogs brought to Germany from other EU countries for trade must be at least 15 weeks old.
  • Before purchasing the animal, you should take the dog to a veterinarian or obtain copies of veterinary certificates.
  • You should pay attention to necessary health measures such as vaccinations, current EU pet passport, chipping of the puppy and breed-specific
    preliminary examinations (heart, HD, X-ray, if necessary MRI, etc.).
  • Report dubious breeders, illegal traders or brokers to the veterinary office, the highest veterinary authority of the respective federal state (usually the Ministry of Agriculture) or the police.

    If you have become a victim of fraud, report it to the nearest police station.

Source: Märkischer Kreis district police authority

Related to the topic: Dog puppies on Facebook? Please don't buy!


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