Pet Fraud

Puppy & Pet Scams

Fraudsters advertise adorable puppies or kittens that don't exist. After payment, they demand more money for "shipping," "insurance," or "vaccinations" - but no pet ever arrives.

How Pet Scams Work

Scammers create fake websites or post on social media advertising puppies at attractive prices. They use stolen photos of cute animals and create emotional stories about why they need to rehome the pet.

After you pay the deposit, suddenly there are "complications" - the pet needs a special crate, insurance, vaccinations, or customs fees. Each payment leads to another demand until you realize there's no pet.

Warning Signs

Too-Good PricesPurebred puppies at fraction of normal cost
Can't VisitAlways an excuse why you can't meet the pet
Wire Transfer OnlyWon't accept credit card or in-person cash
Shipping from AbroadPet supposedly in another country
Endless Extra FeesInsurance, crate, vaccinations, customs
Stock PhotosReverse image search finds the same photos

Recovery Steps

  1. Stop Sending MoneyNo matter what new "fees" they claim. The pet doesn't exist.
  2. Document EverythingSave all ads, emails, payment receipts, and website screenshots.
  3. Contact Payment ProviderRequest chargeback for credit cards. Report fraud for bank transfers.
  4. Report the ScamReport to police, the website where you found the ad, and consumer protection.

Paid for a Pet That Never Arrived?

We've helped many pet scam victims. Credit card payments often have chargeback rights even weeks later.

Report Your Case