Scam library
Fake pet sales and adoptions
A pet listing leads to deposits and repeated transport fees, but there is no animal coming.
What it looks like
Fictional example: Your puppy is reserved. Send the $300 deposit now and our transport partner will arrange delivery.
Fictional example: The kitten needs a climate-controlled crate before departure. Pay the refundable $850 fee at example.com/pet-transit.
How it works
A fake breeder or adoption contact uses stolen photos, invented reviews, or manipulated video to build trust. After the first payment, a supposed transporter demands money for crates, insurance, or treatment. The animal is never delivered.
Warning signs
- You cannot meet the animal before paying.
- Photos appear in unrelated listings.
- New transport or medical fees keep appearing.
- The seller pressures you by claiming the animal will suffer without payment.
If you got one of these
- Arrange an in-person visit with the animal and the verified seller or shelter.
- Search listing photos for reuse elsewhere.
- Verify any transport company independently.
- Remember that a video call alone does not prove the animal or seller is genuine.
If you already paid or shared something
- Contact your payment provider promptly and ask about recovery or a dispute.
- Stop paying additional shipping, insurance, or treatment fees.
- Save the listing and conversations, report the account, and file at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Who gets targeted
People buying or adopting pets online, including families looking for a particular breed.