Free Pet Rehoming Scam
In this scam, a 'free' or low-cost pet is advertised for adoption, but once you are attached the scammer demands escalating fees for shipping, a special crate, or insurance for a pet that does not exist.
Quick verdict
What this scam usually looks like
In this scam, a 'free' or low-cost pet is advertised for adoption, but once you are attached the scammer demands escalating fees for shipping, a special crate, or insurance for a pet that does not exist.
Example message pattern
This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.
Red flags to watch for
- A free or very cheap pet that requires upfront shipping or crate fees
- Escalating 'refundable' charges for insurance, vaccines, or customs
- Requests to pay by gift card, wire transfer, or e-transfer
- A seller who cannot show the pet live and is always 'away'
- Copied photos that also appear on other listings
What to do
- Insist on a live video call or an in-person visit before any payment
- Search the pet's photos online to see if they appear elsewhere
- Use a local shelter or reputable rehoming service where you can meet the animal
- Refuse all advance fees and walk away if pressured
If you already clicked or replied
- Stop sending money, especially any 'one last fee' to release the pet
- If you paid by card, contact your bank or payment provider to dispute it
- Keep all messages and receipts as evidence
- Report the listing and account to the platform and to fraud authorities
What not to do
- Do not pay shipping or crate fees for a pet you have never seen
- Do not pay by gift card or wire transfer
- Do not send 'one more fee' to recover money already paid
Similar scams
Puppy Sale Scam
This scam advertises pets at attractive prices, then asks for a deposit before you can meet the animal and keeps adding fees for shipping, crates, or insurance, while the pet does not actually exist.
Marketplace Gift Card Payment Scam
This scam involves a buyer or seller on a marketplace insisting on paying or being paid with gift card codes. Once the codes are shared they are drained almost instantly and are extremely difficult to recover.
Fake Escrow Scam
In a high-value marketplace deal, the other party insists on a specific 'escrow' or 'secure payment' website to hold the funds, but the site is fake and simply collects your money or card details.
Frequently asked questions
Why do these scams ask for shipping fees?
How can I adopt a pet safely?
The photos look genuine. Does that help?
I already paid a deposit. Can I recover it?
Last reviewed: June 2026