Written by: Kelly Koeller
photo'd above: Kelly's dog Biskut

The internet has been a boon to the pet adoption efforts of animal rescue organizations and private rescuers alike. Thanks to websites such as Petfinder.com and Craigslist.org, people are able to instantly network with others by posting messages, photos and stories about animals in need of homes. In addition, everyday, internet postings help reunite lost pets with their owners.

Unfortunately, scammers have found ways to profit from online posters, and there’s not much that website owners providing posting services can do, because transactions are handled via email or telephone between two parties, rather than through a function of the website controlled by the webmaster or site owner.

“Looking to Adopt a Pet” schemes:

The schemes usually begin with generic looking emails inquiring about adoptable pets, and are designed to bilk people of their money through the use of Western Union transfers, fake money orders and phony cashier’s checks.

Here are some suggestions to help you avoid becoming a victim of an online scam:

 First and foremost, set up an email account that will be used only for the purpose of responding to inquiries regarding your online post. That way, you can protect your main email account from unwanted messages.

 When preparing the online post, include language that states that you will be screening applicants carefully by checking references and by arranging for a home visit. This will send the message to would-be-scammers that you will not likely fall prey to their tactics. Even if you are unable to visit yourself, you should try to find someone to perform a home check for you. Many pet sitters will perform this service for a fee. You can also check with area vet offices and animal organizations to see if they would be willing to help you.

 When you receive responses to your online post or ad, read through the messages and delete any that sound suspicious, such as:

* Responses from people who seem more concerned about the transaction than the pet. Usually, the messages are written in very generic terms. The pet may be referred to as “the item” and the person may ask the "condition" or use other words that seem out of place.

* The messages are often poorly written, with obvious spelling or grammar errors. Many of the scammers are located outside the U.S. and do not speak fluent English.

* Questionable inquiries may also focus largely on questions about payment. The focus at this point should be on whether or not the pet would fit into the person’s family, not how someone is going to pay the adoption fee.

* Responses from people who say are writing on behalf of someone else. Any time someone attempts to adopt an animal for someone else, it should raise a red flag.

* Generic emails stating the person will handle all arrangements for the shipping. They may even say they have their own “shipper.” This type of scam generally concludes with the scammer sending a fake cashier’s check or money order for an amount larger than the adoption fee, and then requesting that you wire or forward the extra funds to the shipper, who is usually a third party involved in the scheme. Once the money has been sent back to the person or to the third party, the scammer ceases communication and the pet remains with the person attempting placement.

 Screen all other responses carefully until you find the right home. For tips on screening potential adopters, check out the information in the guide How to Find Homes for Homeless Pets and the information at http://animalaidsw.org/free.html.

“Lost and Found Pet” schemes:

Some scammers resort to responding to ads, flyers and online posts about lost pets in an effort to pad their pockets. Check out the list of “Top 5 Pet Scams” and advice for protecting yourself on the website Scambusters.org, at this link: http://www.scambusters.org/petscams.html.