What Are Pet Adoption Scams?

Pet adoption scams involve fraudsters advertising fake pets for adoption, often asking for upfront payments or fees. Victims typically send money but never receive the promised pet, leading to financial loss and disappointment.

How Do They Work?

Scammers typically:

• Advertise non-existent pets on websites or social media.
• Request upfront fees for adoption, shipping, or medical expenses.
• Use fake photos and emotional stories to lure victims.
• Disappear after receiving payment, leaving no trace.

Examples of Pet Adoption Scams

Pet adoption scams can take various forms, preying on the emotions of animal lovers and those looking to adopt a pet. Below are some common examples:

• Rare Breed Scams: A scammer posts an ad for a rare breed puppy at an unbelievably low price, claiming it needs to be rehomed urgently. They request upfront payment for shipping or adoption fees, only to stop responding after the payment is made. The promised pet is never delivered, leaving the victim emotionally and financially disappointed.
• Fake Animal Shelters: Fraudsters create fake websites or social media profiles posing as animal shelters or rescue organizations. They display pictures of adorable pets that don’t exist, luring potential adopters to pay adoption fees or donations, which are then pocketed by the scammers.
• Shipping Scams: Scammers claim that a pet is located in another state or country and requires special transportation. They ask for additional fees to cover shipping, insurance, or a special crate. Once the fees are paid, the scammers disappear without delivering the pet.
• Medical Expense Scams: Fraudsters convince victims to pay for "urgent medical treatments" needed for the pet before adoption. After receiving payment, they cease all communication, and the pet is never provided.
• Emotional Stories: Scammers use heart-wrenching tales, such as pets being abandoned or saved from dire situations, to gain sympathy. Victims, moved by the story, send money without verifying the legitimacy of the adoption.
• Adoption Contracts and Deposits: Some scammers create professional-looking contracts and request a non-refundable deposit to "secure" the pet. Despite the legitimate appearance, the pet either doesn’t exist, or the scammer has no intention of following through.
• Social Media Giveaways: Fraudsters offer free pets on platforms like Facebook or Instagram, claiming they just need to cover shipping or basic fees. These posts are often accompanied by fake reviews or comments from satisfied "adopters" to make the scam appear credible.

These scams exploit the good intentions of people looking to provide a loving home for a pet. It's essential to research adoption sources thoroughly and avoid paying upfront fees without verification.

How to Avoid Pet Adoption Scams

• Research the breeder, seller, or organization thoroughly.
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
• Request to meet the pet in person before making any payments.
• Avoid paying through untraceable methods like wire transfers or gift cards.

Category

Miscellaneous Scam