Are you currently looking online for a pet? For many of us, the companionship of our furry friends has been the biggest comfort over the past few months in quarantine. It comes as no surprise that puppy purchases are at an all-time high right now, as more people are working from home and have extra time to spend with their pets.
With the increase in online pet purchases, comes an increase in online pet scams. Pet shipping service scams are floating around on the internet and they will say anything to get your attention.
Airpets International is a trusted first-class pet transportation service and scammers have found a way to take advantage of that trust by creating a nearly identical website to take people’s money. Pet scams are avoidable when you know what to look for. Listed below are some of the signs to help you spot a pet shipping service scam.
We DO NOT Sell Puppies
One of the biggest giveaways that a pet shipping company is scamming you is if they are trying to sell you puppies. There are not any reputable pet shipping companies or IPATA (International Pet And Animal Transportation Association) members that sell puppies. If someone is reaching out to you from a pet shipping company about a free puppy where you “just have to pay for shipping,” then it is a scam.
If you’re wondering whether a pet shipping companies’ offer is too good to be true, then it most likely is. Before you pay any money, you should be absolutely certain that their services even exist. The thought of an inexpensive puppy is exciting until it never shows up and never existed in the first place.
Pirate Websites
As was the case with us, pet scammers operate under a name that is a similar variation of a legitimate pet shipping service and creates a mirror image of their website. A similar website, name, and logo may appear genuine to some unsuspecting customers and draw them into the scam.
Anything that is not from airpetsInternational.com is a scam. We do not use any other variations of our name, so you should be extra diligent if you receive messages from a third-party. If you think you have found a scamming website, you may notice bad grammar, broken links, or an incomplete website and it should be reported to the proper authorities.
Sketchy Payment Methods
Pet scammers will often ask for payment in the form of things like Bitcoin, Western Union, Money Gram, and other untraceable platforms. If a pet shipping company is trying to say that they need a wire transfer or loaded gift card because they can’t take your credit card, then it is a scam. When you make an untraceable payment, it is likely to be non-refundable as well, and you will never see that money again. You should only make payments through recognized credit card systems and platforms you trust.
Airpets International
Airpets International is still the first-class pet shipping service you’ve come to know and trust. It is unfortunate that there are people trying to take advantage of our loyal customers, and that is why we want to make you aware of the pet scamming issue. We will continue to provide a stress-free pet shipping experience for all. Request an estimate and start making travel plans for your furry friend today!
