Moray puppy scam warning after Shih Tzu and Cockapoo buyers defrauded

Online puppy scams have sparked police appeals for buyers to be vigilant.

Buyers in Moray and Aberdeenshire have recently been hit by the fradulent schemes, according to officers as they urge the public to show caution.

The “online deposit scams” saw a victim from Moray defrauded after trying to buy a Shih Tzu from a free ad’s website.

After calling the breeder, arrangements were made to collect the puppy from the Inverness area.

However, despite a £200 deposit being paid, the collection never happened and all contact ended.

In a further incident, an the victim from Aberdeenshire spotted cockapoo puppies for sale on Facebook marketplace.

Again, a deposit was paid and all communications ended.

North East Crime Reduction Officer PC Russell said: “Be mindful of paying upfront for puppies or kittens you’ve never met.

“Scammers will often send photos or videos, persuading potential pet owners to make a deposit or full payment in advance.

“They might also ask for further funds to cover ‘unforeseen costs’ such as pet insurance or vaccinations after they’ve made the initial payment.

“Scammers may offer incentives like ‘free insurance’ or ‘puppy packs’, but this does not mean they are legitimate dealers.

“Do as much research as you can on the breeder and the advert.

“Do not send money without seeing the puppy or kitten.

“You should see the puppy in its own environment interacting with its mother.

“A lot of advice on getting a puppy or kitten can be found online from national organisations and charities.”