SCAM PROTECTION
Animals depend on us to make good decisions on their behalf. Here are some tips to help protect animals from scams:
- NEVER leave your animal alone
unsupervised where he can be seen or taken.
- Spay or neuter your animal.
Medical laboratoriesoften will not accept animals that have been
altered. Altering also prevents unwanted pregnancies, reduced
behavior & health problems, and helps combat the companion
animal overpopulation problem. Most metropolitan areas have
low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Check with your local shelter for a
list of clinics in your area.
- Make sure your animal has
proper identification on at all times. Tattoos and microchips are
highly recommended, because they are a permanent form of
identification. Medical research labs sometimes will not accept
animals with tattoos or microchips!
- Don't adopt an animal out
unless you are willing to thoroughly screen adoption applicants.
- Never give animals away for
free. Even if you charge a minimal adoption fee of $25, you'll be
more likely to deter those who are trying to scam you.
- When returning a stray animal
to his rightful owner, request proof of ownership, including
photos of the animal, vet records, and licensing papers.
- If somebody claims they have
found your "lost animal", ask specific questions to ensure the
animal is yours--particularly if you are offering a reward.
- Posting that your animal needs
medical attention on the "lost animal" flyer can solicit a more
diligent response from neighbors who may encounter your animal. It
can also deter somebody who may be inclined to keep your animal.
- Keep a close eye on what is
happening in your community. If you suspect an animal scam is
taking place, inform your neighbors immediately.
- If you suspect your animal has been stolen by a "buncher" or Class B dealer, consider the following action items:
- 1 Talk to people in your community and find out if other pets in the same area or nearby areas are missing. Inform them of your suspicions.
2 Check the newspapers and classified sections to see if animals in your area or nearby areas
are missing
For more information on lost or stolen pets, contact:
In Defense of Animals
(800) STOLEN PETS
email: ida@idausa.org
www.idausa.org
Last Chance for Animals
(310) 271-6096
email: info@LCAnimal.org
www.lcanimal.org
USDA Missing Pets Network (National)
www.missingpet.net/anlost.html
USDA Missing Pets Network (NC State)
www.cyber-pet-help.com/ncpets/index.html
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