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Online puppy scam leaves Denham Springs woman heartbroken
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DENHAM SPRINGS — What began as an exciting search for a new dog ended in heartbreak and frustration for Gail Bergemann, who says she was the target of an online scam while trying to adopt a dog through a website called Chiempire Pets.
Bergemann, encouraged by a friend, found the site and was quickly drawn in by photos of adorable puppies.
"This is the puppy I was getting," Bergemann said, pointing to a 10-week-old dog.
Eager to bring another dog into her home, Bergemann followed the instructions given by the seller through Facebook Messenger.
She was told the puppy required a $150 deposit with the remaining $150 due upon delivery. Trusting the process, Bergemann sent a photo of an Apple gift card as payment. Soon after, the demands changed. The seller claimed the dog needed vet shots and a crate to travel, asking Bergemann to cover the expenses out of her final payment. The seller would cover part of the vet costs.
"They never would send me an itemized bill from the vet," Bergemann said.
That's when Bergemann realized something was wrong.
"They're using pictures from other places, I'm thinking," Bergemann said.
Further investigation revealed inconsistencies. Bergemann understands that young dogs typically receive their first shots before 10 weeks old. While the cost of the dog she wanted was $300, the Chiempire Pets website listed prices starting at $1,200 and stated all vaccinations were already included. The website also said the business was located in Texas.
WBRZ reached out to the man who identified himself as Thomas Hector, the supposed seller. He claimed to be located in Lake Charles and insisted he was not running a scam, repeatedly asking for a gift card in exchange for the dog. When pressed for details and proof, Hector hung up.
Bergemann is left disappointed but relieved she didn't lose more than her $150 deposit.
"You're playing with other people's hearts," she said.
She hopes her story serves as a warning to others about the dangers of online pet scams.
Bergemann has filed a report with police. The Facebook page has been reported.
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