A devastated woman has revealed how she lost £500 in a heartbreaking puppy scam after responding to an online advert. The fraudsters promised an adorable Cockapoo, but the dog never existed.
The victim, who wished to remain anonymous, told how she thought she was dealing with a legitimate breeder. "I was so excited to bring our new family member home," she said. "But it was all a lie."
How the Scam Unfolded
The scam began when the woman found an advert for Cockapoo puppies on a popular classifieds website. The seller:
- Sent convincing photos of the puppy
- Provided fake vaccination records
- Created a sense of urgency to pressure payment
After transferring £500 as a deposit, communication suddenly stopped. The "breeder" vanished, leaving the would-be dog owner heartbroken and out of pocket.
Warning Signs of Puppy Scams
Animal welfare experts warn that such scams have increased significantly. Red flags include:
- Sellers refusing video calls with the puppy
- Prices significantly below market rate
- Requests for upfront payments via untraceable methods
The RSPCA advises always seeing the puppy with its mother in person before any money changes hands.
Emotional and Financial Toll
Beyond the financial loss, victims often suffer emotional distress. "I cried for days," the woman admitted. "Not just about the money, but the thought of what might really be happening to animals in these situations."
Authorities are urging anyone who suspects puppy fraud to report it to Action Fraud immediately.
