Greg's Corner

Another reminder not to get pets from Craigslist

By Greg Collier

Online marketplaces offer endless possibilities, but they also come with risks, especially when it comes to pet adoption. One family learned this lesson firsthand when they set out to bring home a new dog. The stepfather, convinced by a Craigslist ad for a $100 dog, persuaded the family to welcome Mason into their home. Little did they know, they were stepping into a world of deception.

Craigslist has become notorious for pet scams, where unsuspecting buyers are misled about the age, health, and background of the animals they adopt. In this case, the family believed they were getting a young, vibrant dog. Mason, however, was far from the three-year-old pup they were promised. Soon after Mason joined their family, they noticed he spent an unusual amount of time sleeping. Concerned, they took him to the vet and received shocking news: Mason was actually ten years old and suffering from major heart problems. The vet estimated he had only about nine months to live.

The realization that they had been scammed was disheartening. The family had hoped to share many active years with a young dog, but instead, they were faced with the impending loss of an elderly pet. Despite the initial shock and disappointment, they decided to make Mason’s remaining time as happy and comfortable as possible.

Mason’s story is not just one of love and resilience; it also highlights the risks and heartbreak that can come with pet scams. Many families fall victim to these deceptions, ending up with pets that are older or sicker than advertised. The emotional and financial toll can be significant, as families must adjust their expectations and provide care for animals with unexpected health issues.

Unfortunately, Craigslist is notorious for harboring backyard breeders. These individuals breed puppies with little concern for the animals’ health and well-being. Often, the animals are raised in deplorable conditions without proper medical care. The term “backyard breeder” refers to these unscrupulous breeders who lack certification and professional standards. Although Mason’s situation likely didn’t stem from a backyard breeder, it underscores the mistreatment pets sold on Craigslist can suffer.

To ensure you’re buying a healthy pet from a reputable breeder, it’s best to avoid platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. These sites are often where backyard breeders post their advertisements. This is why Geebo.com, for example, doesn’t allow pet listings. Legitimate breeders typically welcome visitors to their facilities and provide health certifications for their animals.

Moreover, we strongly encourage adopting a pet from your local shelter. Many wonderful dogs are in need of loving homes, and adoption is both a responsible and humane choice.