CONSUMER ADVISORY: BEWARE OF PURCHASING PUPPIES FROM UNKNOWN SOURCES

The following are some tips before purchasing a pet from a private seller:

  • Make sure a veterinarian has checked the animal’s health. Request vaccination records from the seller and call to confirm the records with the veterinarian. Animals can be vaccinated as early as 6 weeks but must be 16 weeks or older before they can receive their rabies vaccine.
  • Don’t purchase an animal on a street corner, in an alley or parking lot, or at a swap meet.
  • Cash transactions can’t be traced back to the seller. Don’t pay cash. Ask for a receipt. Make sure your receipt includes an imprint of the seller’s name, address and license number.
  • Try to meet the seller where the animal has been living. The animal’s living conditions in the first months of life could have a long-term effect on their health and/or behavior. A responsible seller cares for their animals in a clean and sanitary environment.

Please note, articles in the Animal Resource Library are for reference only, and are not meant to diagnose or treat any medical or behavioral issues your pet may be experiencing.