Pet scams happen when someone advertises a puppy or pet that doesn’t actually exist, then tricks people into sending money. They often use adorable photos, convincing stories, and low prices to attract buyers.

As more pet sales move online, these scams have become increasingly common. The Better Business Bureau has received nearly 10,000 reports of fake puppy scams in the last three years, and many more likely go unreported.

Protect yourself by researching breeders, asking questions, and never sending money for a pet you haven’t seen in person.

Pet scammers don’t just steal your money—they can steal your personal and financial information, too. A common trick is to claim your credit card was “declined,” when they may have already captured your card details. They then pressure buyers to use payment methods like Zelle, gift cards, or friends-and-family payments that offer little to no buyer protection.

Many people get caught up in the excitement of bringing home a new puppy and miss the warning signs. One buyer lost $2,300 after a scammer convinced her to purchase Visa gift cards and provide the card numbers over the phone.

Remember: Legitimate breeders will never ask you to pay with gift cards. If something feels off, slow down, ask questions, and do your research before sending any money.

The scam often doesn’t end after the first payment. Scammers may demand additional fees for things like pet insurance, special crates, or shipping costs. They often send fake emails that appear to come from trusted companies to make these charges seem legitimate.

Some victims are even threatened with legal action if they refuse to pay.

Unfortunately, by the time people realize they’ve been scammed, recovering the money can be difficult. To protect yourself, use a credit card whenever possible, as it offers better fraud protection and chargeback options than gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps.

Scammers prey on emotions and excitement. Take your time, ask questions, and do your homework. A little research can help ensure you’re bringing home a real puppy from a reputable breeder—not falling victim to a costly scam.

• Never pay with gift cards, MoneyGram, Western Union, or other hard-to-trace payment methods. Reputable breeders don’t ask for these forms of payment.
• Research the breeder thoroughly. Read reviews, verify credentials, and do a reverse image search on puppy photos.
• Be cautious of “limited-time” deals or pressure to act quickly. Scammers often create urgency to prevent buyers from asking questions.
• Verify shipping arrangements. If a breeder claims to use a major airline or shipping company, contact that company directly to confirm the details.