Imagine you've just found the perfect pet online—maybe it's a cute puppy or a rare exotic bird—and the price is too good to pass up. But after sending the money, the pet never arrives, and the seller disappears. It's a heartbreaking scenario, but sadly, it's becoming more common in the pet world.

Whether you're adopting, purchasing, or rescuing a pet, knowing how to avoid pet scams can save you time, money, and heartbreak. Here's how you can protect yourself and ensure you're getting a healthy, happy animal—without falling victim to fraud.

1. Recognize Red Flags Early

The first step in avoiding pet scams is knowing what to look out for. There are certain signs that should raise a red flag when you're shopping for a pet. One of the biggest indicators of a scam is an offer that seems too good to be true. If the price of the pet is significantly lower than other similar animals, it might be a scam. Scammers often lure in potential buyers with prices that seem irresistible, hoping that urgency will override caution.

Another common red flag is poor or vague communication. If a seller refuses to provide clear details, avoids answering specific questions, or only communicates through emails or messaging apps without offering a direct phone number, it could be a scam. Authentic sellers usually have a lot to say about their animals and are happy to discuss their health history, care needs, and living environment.

Actionable Tip: Always compare prices of similar pets from various trusted sources before making a decision. If the price is drastically lower, ask for more information and verify the seller's identity.

2. Request Detailed Photos and Video

In the age of digital photography, it's easier than ever for scammers to manipulate images or send photos of animals that aren't theirs. If a seller provides only one or two photos of the pet—especially if they look stock or professionally staged—ask for more pictures and a video of the pet in its living environment. This will help you get a clearer idea of the pet's condition and authenticity.

A legitimate seller will also be able to show you the animal's living conditions, including how they interact with their environment. Be cautious if the seller only sends photos without context or refuses to show the pet in a live setting.

Actionable Tip: Request a video call to meet the pet live. This gives you an opportunity to verify its health and ensure the seller is legit.

3. Verify the Seller's Credentials

Before sending any money, do some research on the seller. If you're buying from a breeder, check if they are certified or recognized by a legitimate breeding association. Reputable breeders often have membership in established organizations and can provide references from past clients. For rescue organizations or shelters, look for reviews or feedback from previous adopters. They should be transparent about their mission, processes, and the animals in their care.

Scammers often create fake websites or use generic social media profiles to pretend to be professionals. To verify their credentials, check the domain registration for the website or search for reviews from other buyers. If a breeder or rescue organization doesn't have an online presence or trustworthy reputation, proceed with caution.

Actionable Tip: Look for breeder certification or reviews from past buyers. A legitimate rescue organization will have a history of positive feedback and transparency about their adoption processes.

4. Meet the Pet in Person

One of the best ways to ensure you're not falling for a scam is to meet the pet in person before agreeing to purchase or adopt. Scammers often claim that the pet is in another location and will need to be shipped or delivered, often citing “shipping fees” as an additional cost. If a seller insists that you pay in advance for shipping without offering a chance to meet the pet, it's a major warning sign.

Meeting the pet in person gives you a chance to inspect its health, ask questions about its history, and determine if the environment is suitable for a new pet. It also allows you to see how the pet reacts to you and how comfortable it seems in its surroundings.

Actionable Tip: Always meet the pet at the seller's home or a public space. If meeting in person isn't possible, reconsider the deal, and don't send money until you can verify the pet's condition.

5. Don't Skip the Paperwork

Legitimate breeders and shelters will provide the necessary paperwork for your new pet, including health records, vaccination details, and proof of ownership. If a seller is reluctant to provide documentation, or if the documents look fake, it could be a scam.

This paperwork is important not just for your pet's health, but also for legal reasons. Without proper documentation, you might end up with an animal that doesn't have the correct vaccinations or is in poor health. This is particularly important for exotic pets, which often require special permits or health checks.

Actionable Tip: Request all health-related documents before agreeing to the purchase. A trustworthy breeder or shelter will have no problem providing them.

6. Use Secure Payment Methods

When it comes to paying for your pet, be cautious of sellers who insist on unconventional payment methods, like wire transfers, gift cards, or cash. Scammers often prefer these methods because they're harder to trace, making it more difficult for you to get your money back if something goes wrong.

Always use secure payment methods like credit cards or trusted payment services, as these often provide some level of buyer protection. This gives you a layer of security in case the transaction goes awry.

Actionable Tip: Avoid sending cash or using wire transfer services. Opt for payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as credit cards or PayPal.

Wrap-Up: Protect Yourself and Your Pet

While the idea of adopting or purchasing a new pet is exciting, it's essential to take the time to ensure you're dealing with a reputable seller. By recognizing red flags, verifying credentials, meeting the pet in person, and using secure payment methods, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure that the pet you bring into your home is healthy, happy, and from a trustworthy source.

Remember, adopting or buying a pet is a big responsibility, so always take the necessary steps to ensure your new companion is a good fit for your family—and not a scam.