LASD Fraud Friday Puppy Scam.

Many people expand their family with a furry four-legged puppy but is that puppy you just spent lots of money may not be as authentic as you think. Some people believe buying a dog from a breeder is a guarantee of quality and health. Also, purchasing a puppy is always a lottery, but if you buy a dog from a breeder, you have a lot more information accessible. Some of the information may include the parents and their lines, both regarding health, looks, and temperament, making it possible to predict with some degree of certainty what the puppy will grow up to be like, and if it will suit your expectations and lifestyle. Pet stores and other sellers may accept a breeder’s statement that a puppy is a specific breed. So many times, the store will give the same information to the potential buyer. Such claims may become more questionable. As of Jan. 1, 2019, a new state law https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180AB485 went into effect requiring pet shops to sell only dogs, cats, and rabbits from animal shelters or rescue organizations. Tips to help find that perfect dog: • To determine if a dog is a recognized purebred, request the registration documents from a dog registry organization such as the American Kennel Club, Canine Kennel Club or the Continental Kennel Club. • For a non-recognized breed, such as a designer breed, get a second opinion from an expert. • Meet the seller and dog in person wherever the animal is being housed and ask for medical records before signing a contract or paying. Always do your research to avoid unforeseen problems.