SAN DIEGO — A sophisticated puppy scam using stolen identities has bilked families out of thousands of dollars nationwide, including a Linda Vista family who lost $750 to a fake dog breeder.
The McClurg family turned to online pet sellers after losing their 11-year-old pug, Rodney, in May. A pug named Chili on now-defunct “PugsandPaws.com” captured their hearts at what seemed like a reasonable $750 price.
“You get suckered in when you see the adorable photos and cute videos of puppies,” said Callan McClurg. “Your heart just melts.”…