Scam Notification: Toy Poodles for Sale

The Cambridge Animal Commission has been notified of a regional "Toy Poodle" scam.

The scammers have reportedly been placing flyers on vehicles throughout the region, including earlier this week in Cambridge, indicating that eight-week toy poodle puppies - fully vaccinated and registered with all documents - were listed for sale for $1,000.

It has been determined that dogs are not being sold through the listed phone number and that this is an attempt to extort people. The image used on the flyer is a stock photo.

The scam is being investigated by the Animal Commission and the Police Department, along with other agencies in the region.

According to Better Business Bureau data, nearly 10,000 scam reports and complaints have come in during the last three years about "businesses" selling puppies and dogs. The FTC estimates that only about 10 percent of victims report these crimes, so this number could be much higher. Sixty percent of these reports indicated the consumers never received the pets they purchased, and others received pets that had health or genetic problems and did not receive documentation for their pet.

Residents are encouraged to follow these tips:

• Analyze reviews and referrals. The best sources for purebred puppies will have ample positive reviews or referrals from satisfied puppy owners proving they are legitimate and reputable.

• Meet your breeder or puppy seller. Always ask to talk on the phone or video chat. Meeting in person is great whenever possible.
• Ask questions. Responsible breeders and puppy sellers love to chat and educate about dogs. Ask anything and everything that you might want to know about the breed, the breeder, and the available puppies. Ask about the breed and how your pup's parents compare to the official breed standard and other breed traits. How big are the parents? What do they look like? What kind of temperament do they have?
• Ask for proof. Don't be shy - responsible breeders will be happy to share information about your puppy's parents, and proof of health records and screenings. You should be sure that the puppy has been seen by a licensed veterinarian and know where the puppy is on their shot-schedule. This will also help you so that you have the proper medical information when you bring your puppy home and you will know what shots are needed next.
• Get documentation. Ensure that before leaving with your puppy, you will receive documentation of your dog's papers. If the breeder or puppy seller hesitates to give you papers, this is usually a warning sign.
• Be patient. If they seem anxious to complete the sale or get your deposit as soon as possible, or if you feel like they are pushing you to make a quick decision regarding a puppy, be careful. Such behavior is often a warning sign that the person you are dealing with is actually a scammer, and there is no puppy.

If you believe you have been victimized by or have information about this scam, the Animal Commission and Police Department encourage you to file a report with your local police department. For incidents that took place in Cambridge, reports can be filed at the front desk of the Cambridge Police Station located at 125 Sixth St., in the Central Square Reporting Station or by calling (617) 349-3300.