SCAM LIBRARY · BUYING & SELLING

The puppy / pet-purchase scam

Scammers pose as pet breeders or rescues online, take your money for a cute puppy or pet, then disappear without delivering anything.

Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-06

How it works

You find an adorable pet listing online at what looks like a legitimate breeder or rescue website. The seller pressures you to pay a deposit or full price quickly—often claiming the pet is in high demand or needs immediate payment for shipping. After you send the money, communication stops, or they ask for more fees for 'delivery' or 'veterinary clearance.'

Red flags

• The seller insists on payment by wire transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency—methods that can't be reversed.
• The price seems unusually low for the breed, or the website has poor grammar, mismatched photos, or no verifiable business history.
• They refuse to video call, show the pet in real time, or provide references from previous buyers.
• They ask you to pay 'upfront' before you ever meet or see the animal in person.

What to do

• Only buy from breeders or rescues you can visit in person or speak with by phone—and always ask for references.
• Never send money without meeting the pet and the seller face-to-face, or using a payment method that protects you (like a credit card).
• If you've been scammed, report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov so authorities can help stop the scammer.