Pet Spending and Safety: Be Aware of Online Scams
Nashville, Tennessee has seen a significant rise in online scams targeting pet owners, resulting in financial losses and potential harm to animals.
Risks of Online Pet Scams
- Customers left empty-handed after being told their items were on the way
- Pet owners spending thousands of dollars on counterfeit products
- Pet owners risking their pets’ health and safety due to low-quality or unsafe products
According to the ASPCA, the average pet owner spends around $1,000 per year on their pet’s care, including food, routine vet visits, and accessories.
How to Avoid Online Pet Scams
- Buy from reputable retailers with a secure website and physical address
- Check reviews and verify the authenticity of products
- Be wary of overly discounted deals and use a credit card for protection
- Understand the retailer’s return and refund policy
According to the Better Business Bureau, customers of one retailer were left empty-handed despite being told their items were on the way.
What to Look Out for When Buying Pet Products Online
- “If it’s sold out in other places or if it’s listed at a higher price in other places and all of a sudden you see it for super cheap on a random website you’ve never heard of, that’s a telltale sign that it might not be a real website or it might be a fraudulent product or a counterfeit product.”
- “There is a danger to a pet if it isn’t exactly what you think it is. They could swallow parts, it could be toxic. So you want to make sure that if you’re looking for a specific product that you’re using retailers that you can trust or that actually manufactured that product.”
| Product | Pricing | Where to Buy |
| Jasper 360 Finger Toothbrush | $10 | Amazon, Walmart |
| PawZ Rubber Dog Boots | $15 | Amazon, Petsmart, Walmart |
| FurHaven Deluxe Chaise Lounge Dog Bed | $60 | Amazon, Walmart |
Consumer Reports provides a guide to shopping for quality pet products, with experts evaluating several products.
“The best way to ensure you’re buying a quality product is to do your research and read reviews from other customers. Look for products that are made by reputable manufacturers and have a good reputation for producing high-quality products.”
When shopping for pet products online, it’s essential to understand the retailer’s return and refund policy. Save a copy of the order confirmation until the item is received.
Flea and Tick Prevention: Safety First
When it comes to flea and tick prevention, there are over-the-counter and prescription products available. However, some of these products could be counterfeit too.
“It’s best to talk with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your pet,” said a veterinarian.
Definitions:
- Counterfeit product
- Fraudulent product
- Low-quality product
Don’t fall victim to online pet scams.
