Santa Homemates Maltese

Victim Location 98282

Total money lost $500

Type of a scam Online Purchase

We were looking for a Maltese puppy on line and discovered them listed for sale on the Santa Homemates Maltese website. We were looking for a female which they offered one available so we made contact. They sent photos, description and appurtenant information as well as a short video of the puppy. They were asking $500 for the little pup with FREE shipping, so after some back and forth e-mails we agreed to purchase her. They required payment via Ebay gift cards, something I had never heard of before, so I followed their directions. They got our ship to address and sent us a copy of an AKC certificate of ownership so we could verify that we were the owners when the pup arrived. Shipping instructions were followed by us and a day for her arrival was set for 1/7/2019. We awaited a conformation phone call and email.

Much to our dismay we received both an email and call from a carrier called Pet Relocator (http://proflyusa.com) indication that before they would deliver the dog that we had to pay another $780.76, cording to them for insurance and fees. Again the only way to make payment was via Ebay gift cards. After several calls to and from the carrier we were informed that we only had 2 hours to make payment or the dog would be sent to a pet center. I have a friend who lives in close proximity to the seller who offered to go collect the pup for us, but the seller refused, At this point I emailed the breeder, seller, and asked for a refund. There was and has been NO further reply, so we are now out the fee for the puppy and without the puppy. So sad, we really wanted the little pooch. I have all communications, photos and ownership documents and shipping statements saved on file for review.