Finding the perfect mini Highland cow can be an exciting adventure for farmers, hobbyists, and animal lovers. These charming, shaggy creatures bring joy and companionship to your life. However, as their popularity grows, so does the risk of encountering scams in your search. This guide offers practical tips to help you safely navigate the market for mini Highland cows without falling prey to scams!
In the past four years, we have encountered so many great folks who have come to us to build their herd after getting scammed out of thousands of dollars. Not only is this extremely heartbreaking, but it's also incredibly frustrating because it gives us all a bad name. After pouring our hearts, blood, sweat, and tears into our family ranch, we hate that people look at our page and wonder if we are just another scam and question our credibility.
To be completely honest, even we have been scammed before when we started out, and we don't want to see it happen to anyone else! Scammers are going above and beyond and are always surprising us with their new antics to rob people of their hard-earned money!
We have seen on our own images used for scams! The photos below were used in a Facebook group with over 50,000 followers! I can only imagine the amount of money they have taken from people. I am passionate about stopping them and making it harder for them to get away with it by educating as many people as possible!
Not only are they using stolen photos and videos, but they are also making entire Facebook groups with almost 200k followers, fake websites that look completely legitimate, and using fake farm addresses for "pick-ups"!
After seeing the joy it brought people to find not only a legitimate seller but someone who cares about their animals (and loves seeing updates of them after they leave our pastures), it made me realize how much I loved educating others about this life and helping them find the right fit for them! I started teaming up with other reputable breeders across Ohio and the United States to find perfect fits!
Of course, some will still want to do their own research and find their own herd, so here are some helpful tips to help you avoid the scams and hopefully find exactly what you are looking for!
Understanding the Mini Highland Cow Market
Before starting on your search, it's important to understand the mini Highland cow market. Mini Highlands are smaller versions of traditional Highland cattle, characterized by their long horns and fluffy coats. While they are undeniably cute, owning one requires commitment and proper care.
Knowing the price range for mini Highland cows will help you evaluate potential deals. Prices can range from $2,500 to $9,000 depending on factors like age, health, color, socialization, and gender. If a seller proposes a price significantly lower than this, it might be a red flag.
Research, Research, Research!
The first step in avoiding scams is thorough research. Utilize online resources, forums, and local groups focused on mini Highlands to gather vital information. Engage with current owners who can share their experiences and offer recommendations. DO NOT assume that a social media account is credible because a page or Facebook group is large! Sadly some of the fakest profiles out there have the biggest following!
Another tip is to look at their Facebook profile and see when it was created. If it's new, it's very likely a scam. If there are angry faces on their posts, it's very likely it's a scam. If you look at their posts and you see a tiny clock next to their posts, it's very likely it was hacked, and it's a scam!
Consider creating a list of reputable breeders or farms. Look for sellers with positive reviews and a reputation for ethical practices. A little extra effort in this early stage can save you from potential pitfalls down the line.
Trust Your Instincts
While searching for mini Highland cows, trusting your instincts is essential. A reputable seller should be open to your questions! If something seems off, do not hesitate to walk away. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics or create urgency to rush the sale, which is a significant warning sign. Highlands DO move fast and I understand not wanting to deal with tire kickers, but if they say they need money immediately or they are moving on without answering questions, let them move on! Take your time to ensure you are comfortable with the deal.
Check Their Background
Once you have some potential sellers in mind, take the time to verify their backgrounds. Look for customer testimonials or reviews from previous buyers. A trustworthy seller will have a positive reputation backed by satisfied customers!!
Visit in Person or Video Call
Whenever possible, arrange a visit to meet the mini Highland cows for sale. An in-person visit can provide vital insights into both the seller and the animals. Legitimate breeders will welcome you to their farms, offering an opportunity to observe how the cows are cared for.
During your visit, assess the cows' condition and living environment. Healthy cows in clean surroundings indicate responsible breeding practices. This step can be crucial for ensuring you find a happy, healthy animal.
If you can't visit in person, request a video call! Do NOT rely on videos alone, as scammers often steal videos and use those to get fake deposits!
Be Skeptical of "Too Good to Be True" Deals
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often advertise prices well below market value, which is a common indicator of fraud. Research the average price range and compare it to the offers you receive.
For example, if a seller lists a mini Highland cow for $1000, but similar cows typically sell for $3,000, this is a cause for concern. Always dig deeper and ask detailed questions about the animal’s history.
Secure Payment Methods
Before finalizing any sale, ask about contracts and payment methods. If you are able to pay in a way that protects you, do that! If you pay a certain way on Paypal or Venmo, you can be protected! When we got scammed, we luckily paid via Venmo for goods and services, and they refunded us!
When it comes time to make a purchase, choose your payment method carefully. Scammers often push for cash transactions, as they are difficult to trace. Opt for secure payment options like credit cards or an escrow service to provide an added layer of protection.
Avoid sending money via wire transfers or prepaid cards, as these methods are often associated with scams. Keep your financial transactions safe and secure.
Keep Records
Maintain detailed records of all communications, transactions, and paperwork during the purchase process. Having these documents can protect you if any issues arise later, such as disputes over the cow’s health or unauthorized charges. Keeping a clear trail of your interactions with the seller can assist you in the event of fraud and provides necessary evidence for authorities if needed.
Network with Other Buyers
Joining online forums, social media groups, or local clubs dedicated to mini Highland cows can be incredibly beneficial. Ask them where they got their cattle from and their experience! Engaging with an active community offers valuable insights into reputable breeders and provides support and advice from fellow enthusiasts. Interacting with other buyers can help you feel more confident in your decisions and offer a platform for sharing concerns and victories during your search.
Your Journey to Mini Highland Cow Ownership
Finding mini Highland cows for sale should be a joyful adventure filled with excitement! You can avoid scams by conducting thorough research, trusting your instincts, and staying vigilant . Embrace this journey, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and before long, you'll be welcoming your very own adorable mini Highland cow into your life. With the right approach, you can find a furry companion that will bring boundless happiness to your days!
Need help to find the perfect fit for your farm?! We would love to help! Check out what we have currently available, and if you don't see what you want, message us, and we will help you find it!
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