Changing Lives One Dog At A Time
Protecting the Disabled Community From Assistance Dog Scams
Unfortunately, there has been a growing number of scammers targeting people living with disabilities by pretending to offer trained Assistance Dogs or Service Dogs. For many families, it can be difficult to know what is legitimate and what is not.
Also be aware of dog trainers and handlers claiming that they have an assistance dog. Recently in a post in Hillcrest we saw a lady stating she has an assistance dog with no training or qualification.
At Smart Service Dog, we believe education and awareness are essential. Here are some important warning signs to look out for before trusting any organisation, trainer, or seller.
1. Generic Program Names
Be cautious of pages using vague names such as:
- “Mobility Service Dogs”
- “Psychiatric Service Dogs”
- “Service Dogs for Adoption”
These are descriptions, not professional business names. Reputable organisations build trusted brands and operate under registered business or program names.
2. No Real Reviews or Online Presence
A legitimate Assistance Dog organisation should have:
- Genuine client reviews
- A professional online presence
- Clear contact information
- Evidence of past placements
Followers alone do not prove legitimacy. Always check independent review platforms such as Google reviews and look at how long the page or website has existed.
3. Fake or Incomplete Profiles
Scam profiles often:
- Have very few personal photos
- Use inconsistent images
- Contain little personal information
- Frequently change names or details
Look carefully at photos and posts. Do they appear genuine and consistent?
4. Inconsistent Business Information
A professional organisation should have matching details across:
- Website
- Phone number
- Email address
- Business location
Be cautious if:
- The location does not match the phone number
- The email is generic
- Information changes between platforms
5. Constantly Advertising “Fully Trained Dogs Available”
Training a genuine Assistance Dog takes extensive time, structure, and assessment.
Be cautious of pages constantly posting multiple “fully trained” dogs immediately available for purchase without:
- Training videos
- Working demonstrations
- Public progress updates
- Evidence of handler matching
6. Pressure for Immediate Payment
One of the biggest red flags is being rushed into paying money quickly.
Professional trainers will:
- Answer questions thoroughly
- Provide written information
- Explain the process clearly
- Offer contracts and follow-up support
Scammers often avoid details and give vague replies such as:
- “The dog is amazing”
- “Fully task trained”
- “Knows many tasks”
Additional Red Flags
Other warning signs may include:
- Refusing video calls or meetings
- No written contracts
- No aftercare or follow-up support
- Using another organisation’s training gear
- Offering “free dogs” but charging large transport fees
- No assessment process for clients
If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
A reputable Assistance Dog organisation will always be transparent about:
- Their training methods
- Their placement process
- The people they serve
- Their support systems
- Their qualifications and experience
If you are uncertain, ask trusted trainers, disability organisations, or Assistance Dog communities for advice before making any payments.
By speaking up and sharing information, we can help protect vulnerable individuals and families from scams and unethical practices.
Smart Service Dog remains committed to ethical, professional, and disability-focused Assistance Dog training throughout South Africa.
Question: are they registered with AADSA Association of Assistance Dogs South Africa ?