Great Lakes Wire

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has initiated an investigation into an individual using the alias "Abby Stratiskii" on the pet adoption website RescueMe.org. Stratiskii is accused of misleading Michigan consumers by allegedly falsifying vaccination records for a dog sold through the website. Last week, the Department of Attorney General issued Civil Investigative Subpoenas to Facebook (Meta Platforms, Inc.), the operators of Rescue Me (World Organization d/b/a Rescue Me), and PETIQ, LLC, a company that issued a rabies tag, in an effort to uncover Stratiskii's true identity.

In May 2024, the individual under investigation posted her dog, "Toby," on RescueMe.org for adoption, claiming she needed to rehome him after receiving an eviction notice due to his barking. The website allows third parties, including individuals and shelters, to list animals for adoption. Two Michigan consumers saw the listing, paid Stratiskii a $250 “adoption fee,” and received Toby’s veterinary and vaccination records. It is alleged these records were falsified. The Department has identified at least two similar animal adoption postings linked to Stratiskii.

"Animal lovers want to provide homes for pets in need," Nessel said. "Unfortunately, bad actors sometimes take advantage of this generosity. When looking to adopt online, consumers need to be vigilant against those looking to deceive them. My office is dedicated to protecting consumers by investigating and uncovering these scammers and using all available tools at our disposal to hold them accountable."

The Attorney General is reissuing her consumer alert on puppy scams to provide Michiganders with tips to avoid being scammed when purchasing dogs online. Attorney General Nessel also encourages anyone who may have adopted a pet from Stratiskii or may have information concerning Stratiskii's true identity to contact the Department's Consumer Protection Team.

To file a complaint with the Attorney General or get additional information:

Consumer Protection Team

P.O. Box 30213

Lansing, MI 48909

517-335-7599

Fax: 517-241-3771

Toll-free: 877-765-8388

Online complaint form

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