How to Tell if a Pet You Bought Online Was Stolen
Buying a pet online can be exciting, but it's important to be cautious. Sometimes, sadly, pets offered for sale may have been stolen. Here's how you can spot the warning signs and avoid unknowingly purchasing a stolen pet.
Trust Your Gut Feeling
First things first – if something feels off about the sale, listen to your instincts. Legitimate sellers are usually happy to answer questions and provide information. If the seller seems evasive or pushy, that's a red flag.
Check the Price
Is the pet priced suspiciously low? While we all love a good deal, purebred or rare pets being sold for much less than their usual value could indicate something's not right. Do some research on typical prices for the breed or type of pet you're interested in.
Ask for the Pet's History
A genuine seller should be able to tell you about the pet's background. Ask questions like:
- Where did the pet come from?
- How long have they had the pet?
- Why are they selling?
- Can they provide vet records or vaccination history?
If they can't or won't answer these basic questions, be wary.
Request Proper Documentation
Legitimate pet sales should come with paperwork. This might include:
- Pedigree certificates for purebreds
- Vaccination records
- Microchip information
- Transfer of ownership documents
Be skeptical if the seller can't provide these or if the documents look fake or altered.
Meet the Pet in Person
Whenever possible, arrange to meet the pet before buying. This allows you to:
- See how the pet interacts with the seller
- Check if the pet matches the description and photos
- Ask more questions face-to-face
Be cautious of sellers who refuse in-person meetings or keep changing the meeting location.
Look for Signs of Distress or Neglect
When you meet the pet, pay attention to its behavior and condition. A stolen pet might:
- Seem unusually fearful or aggressive
- Look unkempt or unhealthy
- Not respond to its supposed name
These could be signs that the pet isn't actually familiar with the seller.
Check Online Resources
Before finalizing the purchase:
- Look up the pet's microchip number if available
- Check local lost pet databases or social media groups
- Search for similar-looking pets reported as missing in the area
Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales Tactics
A seller pushing you to decide quickly or pay cash immediately might be trying to offload a stolen pet. Responsible sellers understand that choosing a pet is a big decision and should give you time to think.
Trust Reputable Sources
Consider adopting from shelters or buying from licensed, well-reviewed breeders. These sources are much less likely to deal in stolen pets.
Protect Your New Pet
Once you've ensured your new pet comes from a legitimate source, it's crucial to protect them from potential theft. At Safely Secured, we understand the importance of keeping your furry friends safe. Our range of anti-theft dog accessories is designed to give you peace of mind and keep your pet secure.
From GPS-enabled collars to sturdy, theft-resistant leashes, our products combine cutting-edge technology with practical design. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to pet theft.
What to Do if You Suspect a Pet is Stolen
If you have strong reasons to believe a pet for sale is stolen:
- Don't buy the pet
- Report your suspicions to local law enforcement
- Contact animal welfare organizations in your area
Remember, buying a pet is a long-term commitment. It's worth taking the time to ensure you're getting your new friend from a legitimate, ethical source. By being vigilant, you're not only protecting yourself but also helping to combat pet theft. And once your new pet is home, consider investing in quality anti-theft accessories to keep them safe and secure for years to come.