Attorney General Dana Nessel reaches settlement with Oshtemo Township woman who falsified pet vaccination records, issues consumer warning on online adoptions.
AG Nessel Settles Investigation into Pet Adoption Fraud
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has settled an investigation into a fraudulent pet adoption scam, securing a legal agreement that prohibits Paige Harkema of Oshtemo Township, who operated under the alias “Abby Stratiskii,” from engaging in deceptive pet sales.
The settlement, filed as an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance and Discontinuance in the 30th Judicial Circuit Court in Ingham County, resolves allegations that Harkema violated the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA) by falsifying veterinary and vaccination records for a dog she sold online.
Scam Uncovered Through Online Adoption Listing
Harkema came under investigation after listing her dog, “Toby,” on RescueMe.org in May 2024, falsely claiming she needed to rehome him due to an eviction notice prompted by his barking. Two Michigan consumers responded to the listing, paying a $250 “adoption fee” and receiving veterinary and vaccination records that were later discovered to be fraudulent.
Under the terms of the settlement, Harkema is barred from falsifying vet records, posting animals for adoption on RescueMe.org, or using aliases when selling goods or services to Michigan consumers. She also agreed not to sell or offer for private adoption any companion animal for ten years.
Financial Penalty and Consumer Restitution
As part of the resolution, Harkema must pay $2,000, which will be available for consumers who make substantiated claims regarding her deceptive practices.
“Adopting a pet in need can be a rewarding experience, but always remember to be cautious, especially when adopting online,” said Attorney General Nessel. “If you receive vet or vaccination records, always verify their authenticity with the veterinarian on file before finalizing the adoption.”
Nessel encourages any Michigander who adopted a pet from Harkema to reach out to the Consumer Protection Team for assistance.
Consumer Protection Alert on Puppy Scams
In light of this case, the Attorney General is reissuing her consumer alert on puppy scams to help Michiganders avoid fraudulent pet sales.
If you believe you were deceived when purchasing a pet from Harkema or suspect another pet adoption scam, you are urged to contact the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team:
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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