RCMP warn of dog-gone Kijiji puppy scam

Mounties in Sherwood Park, Alta. are warning would-be puppy parents about a Kijijiscam cashing in on the cuteness of golden retrievers.

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RCMP say they've received several complaints about the scamsince August. In each case, a female Kijiji userhas posteda listing for golden retriever puppies, askingprospective buyers to email transfer a deposit to hold the puppy until pick-up.

However, when the time comes to pick up the puppy, the Kijiji poster first makes excuses and eventually stops replying altogether, police say.

"Reputable breeders will never ask you to send or wire money,"Const.ChantelleKelly said in a news release issued Monday.

"No matter how good the deal seems or how cute the animal is, always pay once you've inspected the pet and asked the seller all of your questions. Only then should you pay."

In the wake of the scam, RCMPhave issued the following tips to help others avoid becoming victims:

• Ask a lot of questions, and be concerned if the seller is not forthcoming
• Make sure to test all merchandise before you pay for it
• Make the payment in cash and in person, if possible don't rely on e-transfers or money exchange services
• Pick a public place to make the transfer, and bring a friend if you can
• Consider it a red flag if the sellerseemsunwilling to meet