In the current digital age, it is no surprise that the first step in many people’s search for a new pet begins with the internet. Alas, even the most careful online search is likely to put a consumer in contact with a potential thief. When looking for a family pet, be on the lookout for scams. As consumers turn to the internet to find new pets, experts say a surprising 80% of sponsored pet advertisements may be fake.
Red flags include popular breeds, like French Bulldogs, offered at a steep discount that then involve hidden “shipping” and “insurance” or “crate” costs. Be wary of alleged breeders who refuse to a Facetime call with the animal.
Do research! Only purchase from a reputable dealer. Check BBB Business Profiles on BBB.org for complaints and customer reviews before making the purchase.
Don’t buy a pet without seeing it in person. If that isn't possible, request a live call to view the animal, meet the breeder and evaluate the facility.
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Conduct a reverse image search of the picture of the pet. If the same picture appears on multiple websites, it’s likely a fraud. Also search for distinctive text from ads or testimonials, to see if the purported seller copied it from another website.
Do not wire money, use payment platforms or gift card. These payment methods offer no way to get money back if the buyer is the victim of fraud.
Do research to get a sense of a fair price for the breed you are considering. Think twice if someone advertises a purebred dog for free, a rehoming fee or at a deeply discounted price, it could be a fraudulent offer.
Consider reaching out to a local animal shelter. Many shelters are looking for fosters to help relieve animal stress and reduce overcrowding.
How the scam works
You: • Find the perfect purebred puppy online at a great price. • Answer lots of questions about yourself before learning the seller isn’t nearby and needs to ship the dog to you. • Have your credit card payment rejected, according to the breeder, who then offers to take cash sharing apps like Zelle or Venmo. • Pay for a puppy that never arrives because it never existed.
Scammers: • Impersonate breeders or create convincing fake websites, using stolen photos • Steal credit card information to use or sell at a later time. • Drag out delivery, sometimes saying the pet is stuck at the airport. • Impersonate airlines or shipping companies, provide official looking documents claiming the dog needs an expensive temperature-controlled carrier or special insurance • Continue to ask for more money until you catch on to the scam. • Disappear.
How to avoid: • Do a reverse image search for the pictures of the animal for sale • Ask to do a video call with the pet and breeder if you can’t meet them in person • Don’t believe “too good to be true” prices • Consider adopting from a local animal shelter or buying from a nearby, reputable breeder • Research pet sellers and never rely only on email or text message communication.
