Is it safe to adopt a dog off of Facebook or Craigslist?

[FalkorthePoogle]

I really want to get a new dog, but I cannot afford a breeder fee. I looked at my local shelters, but they have only a few dogs I like. Along with that, most rescue groups in my area have high fees and want to make a home visit. This seems like a lot, and I'm not really comfortable with people in my home like that. I have found a few dogs on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. I'm not sure if this is a safe place to find dogs or not. Any advice?

 

[Rach_73]

Hmm i wouldn't personally buy a dog on Craigslist. I don't know any reputable breeders who put their pups on Craigslist, so you're probably looking at a puppy from an inexperienced breeder, someone who just wants to make a quick buck and not screening for health issues, or worse, a puppy mill.
Although rescue fees are sometimes high, you've got to remember that taking a dog on is a huge responsibility, including financially. And all they want to do during a home visit is to check that your home is safe and you're both a good match for eachother.
I would personally wait until you find a dog you really like in a rescue center. That way the shelter can tell you a bit about them (sometimes) and more likely to be healthy and in good shape than from FB marketplace.

 

[dogsaremylife]

I'd be careful. You never know what you are getting with those sites. But I do often see people rehoming pets there. If you go that route, be sure to ask about any shots the puppy has had and medical records. It's probably better to go with a breeder or rescue center as there are fewer unknowns.

 

[Frankie Flowers]

I've actually adopted a few pets from local sites and had them be just fine. However, I did my research first. I always asked for health history and vaccinations, as well as asked to see where the pets were kept. If they were unwilling to let me take the animal to my vet before adopting, I would not do it. I took in an older dog that needed a new home, and we all were very happy at the end. However, this was not a puppy, and I had a lot of information. I met with the previous owners, had the health history, and knew everything before I took him in. I've also taken in cats this way, but again, I always get all the info first.