The joy of welcoming a new pet can sometimes be clouded by online deception. Sadly, pet adoption scams are on the rise, preying on hopeful families.
Scammers take advantage of good intentions, creating heartbreaking experiences. The good news is that with knowledge and a few smart steps, you can protect yourself and still find your new best friend.
Common Red Flags in Pet Adoption
Scammers often use emotional appeal and urgency to trick people. Watch out for these red flags in pet adoption:
- Too-good-to-be-true prices: Offers that seem far below typical adoption fees.
- Unusual payment requests: Demands for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- No in-person contact: Refusal to meet, video chat, or allow you to see the pet’s living space.
- Stock or stolen photos: The same pet images appearing across multiple listings.
- Hidden or extra fees: Sudden charges for shipping crates, insurance, or permits.
These warning signs are common across both puppy adoption scams and cat adoption schemes. If you notice even one of these, proceed with caution.
How to Spot an Adoption Scam
If you’re wondering how to spot a scam, look beyond the cute pictures and touching stories. Scammers often create detailed backstories about a fake animal rescue, but they fail to provide verifiable proof.
Ask yourself:
- Does the group have a working website, social media presence, or reviews?
- Can they show veterinary records or adoption papers?
- Are they registered as a nonprofit or connected with a shelter network?
If the answers are unclear or evasive, it’s safer to walk away. You might also want to review the 10 Questions to Ask a Shelter Before Adopting a Pet to help you prepare.
Online Pet Scams: What to Know
The internet has made adoption more accessible, but it has also opened doors for fraud.
Many online pet scams target families searching through Facebook groups or classified ads. Scammers set up polished websites, complete with stolen images, to look legitimate.
The Federal Trade Commission warns that pet scams spike during the holidays when people search for puppies as gifts. Always remember: if you can’t see the pet in person or on live video, there’s a high chance the animal doesn’t exist.
How to Verify a Rescue Organization
The safest way to adopt is through a shelter or rescue you can verify. Before you hand over money, take steps to verify a rescue organization:
- Check affiliations: Look for partnerships with local shelters or national networks.
- Confirm nonprofit status: Genuine rescues often list their EIN or registration number.
- Request references: Ask for vet clinics or adopters they’ve worked with.
- Visit in person: Meeting the pet and seeing their environment builds trust.
These steps not only ensure a safe adoption process but also give you peace of mind knowing your new companion is real and cared for.
How to Avoid Pet Scams Altogether
You can significantly reduce risk if you follow these practices to avoid pet scams:
- Adopt local: Visit your community shelter or humane society.
- Use trusted adoption platforms: Stick to trusted pet adoption sites that vet rescues.
- Research thoroughly: Search the organization’s name with terms like “scam” or “complaint.”
- Never pay with untraceable methods: Use a credit card for added protection.
- Report suspicious activity: Always report a pet scam to the FTC or your local consumer protection office.
Consider learning more about Pet Adoption vs. Buying from a Breeder. Understanding the differences helps you make safer, more informed choices.
A Safe Path to Adoption
Scams can’t erase the joy that comes from adoption, but they can make the journey more difficult.
By learning how to spot scams and verify rescues, you’re taking important steps toward a safe adoption process. Stay cautious, trust your instincts, and remember, every genuine adoption helps a pet find their forever home.
