Pickerington man warning people not to get swindled if you buy a puppy online

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) — After spending more than $5,000 to buy a teacup Pomeranian, a Pickerington man says he continues to be nickel and dimed by the online sellers.

John Kovach says he paid nearly $700 to an online puppy site for a teacup Pomeranian, but instead of delivery, he continues to be billed for insurance, permits, and other fees.

“I figured it to be a real breeder,” said Kovach, “but anybody can do that on the computer, and anyone can be dumb enough to accept it.”

Kovach said he knew he was being duped when he received a message from the so-called delivery company claiming the dog was placed in a quarantine station at a custom export office in St. Clairsville, Ohio because the animal did not have quarantine papers.

Kovach said he was told he also faced being fined $50 a day, up to $95,000, for failing to follow USDA guidelines.

“They are taking advantage of people on limited incomes,” said Kovach.

ABC 6/FOX 28 sent Kovach paperwork to The Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio for review

“It’s typically what we see with a puppy scam,” said Kip Morse with the BBB, They are going to take something that is in current events and play right into the scam.”

Officials with the USDA emailed ABC 6/FOX 28 saying none of the information in the message related to the government agency is correct, and it does not fine people $50 a day if their animal does not have quarantine papers.

ABC 6/FOX 28 called the delivery agency that contacted Kovach but no one returned our calls.

Kovach now warning anyone interested in buying a pet for their family to do it in person and do it locally.

“Make sure it’s in Ohio,” said Kovach, “and someplace where you can see the dog before you buy it.”