Every year, thousands of well-meaning people fall victim to pet adoption scams or end up adopting from organizations that aren't what they seem. With more adoptions happening online than ever before, knowing how to spot red flags has never been more important.
This guide will help you identify scams, evaluate organizations, and protect yourself throughout the adoption process — so you can focus on finding your perfect companion with confidence.
Online Pet Adoption Scams: The Growing Threat
The internet has made pet adoption more accessible, but it's also created opportunities for scammers. The Better Business Bureau reports that pet scams are among the most common online fraud schemes, with victims losing an average of $850 per incident.
Here's how they work — and how to spot them.
The ""Shipping Fee"" Scam
This is the most widespread pet scam. You find an adorable puppy or kitten listed online, often at an unusually low price or even ""free to a good home."" The seller claims the pet needs to be shipped from another state or country, and asks you to pay shipping fees, insurance, crate costs, or customs charges.
Once you pay, the fees keep multiplying — and the pet never arrives because it doesn't exist.
- Warning signs: The seller is never available for a video call or in-person meeting
- Warning signs: They only accept wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- Warning signs: The photos look professional or stock-like, and reverse image searches find them on other sites
- Warning signs: There's always an excuse for why you can't see the pet in person
Fake Rescue Websites
Some scammers create polished websites that mimic legitimate rescue organizations. They list animals ""available for adoption"" and collect application fees, adoption deposits, or donations — then disappear.
- Warning signs: The organization has no physical address or it doesn't check out on Google Maps
- Warning signs: They have no social media presence or their accounts were just created
- Warning signs: They can't provide references from veterinarians or other adopters
- Warning signs: Their website domain was registered very recently (you can check at whois.com)
The Bait-and-Switch
In this scenario, you adopt one animal but receive a different one — often a pet with significant health or behavioral issues that the organization hid during the process.
- Warning signs: They discourage you from meeting the specific animal before adoption day
- Warning signs: The pet's appearance or behavior is noticeably different from what was described
- Warning signs: They rush the handoff and discourage questions
Red Flags in the Adoption Process
Even with legitimate organizations, certain practices should give you pause.
No Application or Screening Process
Responsible rescues and shelters want to make sure their animals go to good homes. If an organization will give you a pet with no questions asked — no application, no references, no home check — they may not be invested in the animal's long-term welfare.
Refusal to Share Medical Records
Every legitimate shelter and rescue tracks vaccinations, spay/neuter status, deworming, and any medical treatments. If they can't produce this documentation, the animal may not have received proper veterinary care. (Skipping the initial vet visit is also one of the Common Mistakes New Pet Owners Make.)
No Return Policy
Reputable organizations always have a return policy. Life happens — allergies develop, housing situations change, pets and existing animals don't get along. A good rescue would rather have the animal returned to them than end up in a worse situation. No return policy means less accountability.
High-Pressure Tactics
""If you don't take this dog today, it will be euthanized tomorrow."" While this is sometimes genuinely true in high-kill shelters, it's also a manipulation tactic used by some organizations to pressure emotional decisions. A responsible shelter will give you time to think.
How to Verify a Legitimate Rescue or Shelter
Before committing to any adoption, take these steps:
- Check their 501(c)(3) status: Legitimate nonprofits are registered with the IRS. You can verify this at irs.gov or guidestar.org
- Read reviews: Look for Google reviews, Facebook reviews, and mentions on community forums. A few negative reviews are normal — a pattern of complaints is a red flag
- Ask for references: Request contact information for recent adopters or partner veterinarians
- Visit in person: If possible, visit the facility or meet at a public location. See the animals' living conditions firsthand
- Research their social media: Active, established social media accounts with real engagement suggest legitimacy
- Contact your local animal control: They can often tell you if an organization is recognized and in good standing
Protecting Yourself Financially
- Never wire money or send gift cards for a pet adoption
- Use traceable payment methods (credit cards offer the most protection)
- Get a receipt and a written adoption contract
- Be wary of adoption fees that are significantly higher or lower than the regional average ($50-$300 for dogs, $50-$150 for cats is typical)
- Never pay ""deposits"" to hold an animal you haven't met
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you suspect you've been scammed, take action quickly:
- Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- File a complaint with the BBB
- Report the listing to the platform where you found it (Facebook, Craigslist, etc.)
- Contact your bank or credit card company to dispute the charge
- Report it to your local police department
The Bottom Line
The vast majority of shelters and rescues operate with integrity and genuine love for animals. But scammers exploit that goodwill, and a few bad actors exist in every space. Being informed doesn't mean being cynical — it means being smart.
Take your time, ask questions, verify credentials, and trust your gut. For a broader look at adoption red flags beyond scams, read our guide on Red Flags to Watch for When Adopting a Pet. If something feels off, it probably is. The right pet and the right organization are worth the extra diligence.
How PawMates Pro Helps
PawMates Pro connects you with shelters and rescues and gives you the tools to make informed decisions. Pet profiles can include medical records, vaccination history, behavioral assessments, and adoption fees — so you have more information upfront. Our platform's secure messaging lets you communicate directly with shelter staff, schedule meet-and-greets, and ask every question you need answered before committing. We always encourage adopters to do their own due diligence, and PawMates Pro makes that process easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Adoption Scams
How common are pet adoption scams?
Pet adoption scams are increasingly common, particularly on social media platforms, classified ad sites like Craigslist, and unverified websites. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center reports millions of dollars lost to pet scams annually. Scams have increased significantly since the pandemic-era surge in pet adoption demand.
What are the warning signs of a pet adoption scam?
Key warning signs include requests for payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency; unusually low prices for purebred or designer breeds; sellers who cannot meet in person or let you see the animal; stock photos or stolen images of animals; pressure to pay immediately; and requests for additional fees after the initial payment for shipping, insurance, or customs.
How do I verify if a pet rescue organization is real?
Verify the organization's 501(c)(3) status through the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Check for a physical address and visit if possible. Look for reviews from multiple sources. Verify their social media presence has consistent, ongoing activity over months or years. Contact your state's attorney general or department of agriculture to check for complaints or disciplinary actions.
Is it safe to buy a pet online without meeting it first?
No. You should never send money for a pet you have not seen in person. Legitimate shelters and rescues will always allow you to meet the animal before committing. If a seller or organization refuses to let you visit the animal, insists on shipping the pet to you, or will not provide a video call at minimum, it is very likely a scam.
What should I do if I have been scammed in a pet adoption?
Report the scam to the platform where you found the listing, contact your bank or credit card company to dispute the charge, file a report with your local police department, and report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Document all communication, screenshots, and payment receipts as evidence.
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