80% of online ads for pets may be fake, says BBB. Here's how to protect yourself

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting part of life. But consumer advocates warn that scammers are preying on your heart strings.

According to the Better Business Bureau, a shocking 80% of online advertisements for pets may be fake.

Here's how to protect yourself from fake breeders and other scammers.

First, if you see an online ad for a particularly cute puppy, kitten, or other pet, do a "reverse image search" to see if the photo is stolen from a legitimate site, or if it is a stock photo. If the same picture appears on multiple websites, it's probably fraud.

Prospective pet parents should also meet their new animal in person, and if possible, see the facility where it is being raised. If a breeder makes excuses for why you can't come visit, that's a red flag.

The Federal Trade Commission also cautions consumers to watch how they're asked to pay. Scammers love payment via gift card, crypto currency, or wire transfers.

If you do enter a transaction with a breeder, watch for undisclosed fees. If the breeder suddenly says there's a transportation fee or licensing fee, that's a warning that they're trying to string you along and pay more for a pet that doesn't exist.

Finally, consider adopting an animal in need from your local shelter or rescue group instead of buying from a breeder.

Take a look at more stories and videos by 7 On Your Side.

7OYS's consumer hotline is a free consumer mediation service for those in the San Francisco Bay Area. We assist individuals with consumer-related issues; we cannot assist on cases between businesses, or cases involving family law, criminal matters, landlord/tenant disputes, labor issues, or medical issues. Please review our FAQ here. As a part of our process in assisting you, it is necessary that we contact the company / agency you are writing about. If you do not wish us to contact them, please let us know right away, as it will affect our ability to work on your case. Due to the high volume of emails we receive, please allow 7 to 10 business days for a response.