Real Pet Adoption vs Puppy Deposit Scam
Tell a genuine pet adoption or breeder listing apart from a puppy deposit scam.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Puppy and kitten deposit scams use appealing photos — often stolen from legitimate breeders — to collect deposits for pets that do not exist. Genuine adoption and reputable breeders follow verifiable processes. The comparisons below protect both your money and your heart.
Side-by-side comparison
| Real pet adoption | Puppy deposit scam | |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing | Encourages an in-person visit before any payment | Refuses viewing; claims the animal is 'abroad' or in transit |
| Payment method | Bank transfer to a verifiable account, or card; receipt provided | Demands payment via wire transfer, Western Union, or gift cards |
| Documentation | KC registration, vaccination records, vet certificate available | Promises documents 'after delivery'; none available upfront |
| Communication | Consistent, verifiable contact details; landline or verified number | WhatsApp only; refuses voice calls or changes contact details |
| Pricing | Consistent with market rates; transparent about all costs | Low initial price with escalating 'transport insurance' or 'customs' fees |
Common red flags
- Animal is described as currently abroad and being shipped to you
- Payment only by wire transfer, Western Union, gift cards, or crypto
- Photos reverse-search to a different breeder's website
- Escalating additional fees after the initial deposit
- Seller refuses a video call showing the animal in its current environment
Verification steps
- Reverse-image-search the animal photos to check they appear on other sites
- Insist on a live video call showing the animal and its environment before paying
- Visit in person before any money changes hands
- Check breeders against the Kennel Club or relevant breed society registers
What not to do
- Don't pay a deposit for a pet you haven't seen in person or on a verified live video
- Don't pay escalating 'transport' or 'customs' fees for a pet shipment
- Don't assume professional-looking photos mean the seller is genuine
A safe response
Insist on an in-person visit before paying anything. If that is refused, treat the listing as a scam and report it to the platform and Action Fraud.
Frequently asked questions
Is it ever safe to buy a pet without viewing it first?
No reputable breeder or rescue organisation expects you to pay without viewing the animal. Any refusal to allow this should be treated as a strong warning sign.