Scam warning
Puppy and Pet Scam
Scammers post adorable puppies or kittens for sale at a good price. After you pay, there are surprise fees for shipping, a special crate, insurance or vaccines. The pet doesn't exist.
Also called: Puppy scam, Pet scam, Kitten scam, Pet shipping scam
The one thing to remember
Meet the pet in person before you pay anything. If you can't, don't buy.
How it happens
- You find a cute puppy on a website or Facebook, often a popular breed at a low price.
- The seller can't meet, but will ship the pet.
- After you pay, a “pet shipping company” emails about extra fees.
- The fees keep growing, and the pet never comes.
Warning signs
- A price much lower than other sellers.
- A seller who won't video call to show you the pet.
- Surprise fees for crates, insurance or shipping.
- Payment by Zelle, gift cards or wire.
What to do
- Visit the pet in person, or adopt from a local shelter.
- Ask someone to do a reverse image search on the pet photos.
- Never pay with gift cards, Zelle or wire for a pet.
Last checked: October 31, 2026