Centralised database could eradicate puppy purchasing scams, says Aquarium Software
(PRWEB) August 28, 2017 -- With puppy purchase scams on the rise, technology specialist Aquarium Software suggests more should be done to prevent people falling victim to rogue puppy breeders. Indeed, recent news has led to Aquarium Software to call for one, a more robust centralised database and licensing initiative, to enable consumers to check whether a breeder is licensed, and whether the proposed puppy for purchase has been insured, for example. A problem that has plagued the UK for years now seems to be coming into the public consciousness in the States, too, according to the LA Times (http://www.latimes.com/bp/la-ara-30075-fraud-alert-internet-puppy-purchase-scams-rising-20170725-adstory.html ).
In an ever-more globalised world with the internet being used as a main mode of purchasing, more and more people are being scammed out of thousands by sending money across states and even countries for puppies which sometimes do not exist, or in other cases have not been raised healthily, legally or ethically. Much of the time the price of these ‘rogue’ puppies is lower than average, which lures excited customers into the scam, as well as being fooled by additional costs for the pooch such as pet insurance and costs for safe travel transfers. Smitten customers usually pay any price for their pups to be shipped safely and quickly.
“The best way to avoid falling victim to these scams in the States, the UK or wherever, is to apply common sense to every step of ordering a puppy online," says Aquarium’s VP Sales and Marketing, Mark Colonnese. “Customers must conduct detailed research into the puppy they are purchasing, including evidence as to whether a puppy has been vaccinated and fully insured.”
Many websites offer simple tips and tricks to avoid being fooled by such scams, however Aquarium believes that not enough is being done to sort this growing issue. The technology specialist suggests the best way to conduct sufficient research is a robust centralised database including more than just basic information about reliable puppy breeders, whether the puppies have been fully insured and are fully vaccinated.
“The industry can also do more to lobby governments and help consumers,” said Colonnese. “A centralised global database where buyers could check they are purchasing their perfect puppies from reliable breeders would be the best way to stop people becoming emotionally invested towards puppies which, unfortunately, do not exist or have been bred illegally or contra to animal welfare guidelines. The pet industry is global; the internet is global; so why can’t the database of approved breeders and animals be global?” concluded Colonnese.
Aquarium Software’s specialist pet insurance solution spanning premiums rating, policy admin, billing and claims has been implemented by a number of insurers around the globe. For further information contact Aquarium Software on +44 (0)161 927 5620 or visit http://www.aquarium-software.com
Photograph and caption: Mark Colonnese, VP Sales and Marketing Director at Aquarium Software.
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