Fake Pet Shipping Fee Scams on Facebook
How scammers advertise pets for free or at low cost on Facebook, then extort escalating shipping, insurance, and customs fees from victims.
Part of: Fake Pet Shipping Fee Scams
Last reviewed: 8 June 2026
Facebook is the primary venue for fake pet shipping scams, because its classified-style groups and Marketplace allow scammers to reach large audiences of pet seekers at no cost. A listing for a puppy, kitten, or exotic animal appears at an irresistibly low price or even for free — often with a compelling backstory about a deployment, relocation, or a deceased owner's pet needing a loving home.
Once a potential buyer expresses interest, the scam unfolds as a series of escalating fees: shipping costs, a specialised transport crate, pet insurance, veterinary clearance, and customs handling. Each fee is presented as a final requirement, but more always follow. No animal ever arrives.
How this scam works on Facebook
The scammer creates a Facebook post or Marketplace listing with photographs of a desirable puppy or kitten, often of a premium breed. The price is set low, or the pet is offered free to a good home, with a heartfelt story to justify the unusual arrangement. After an email or message exchange that feels genuine and warm, the buyer is told the pet will be shipped and asked to pay a modest transport fee.
Payment is requested by wire transfer, gift card, or a payment app. After each payment, a new fee emerges — crate safety deposit, airport handling, veterinary inspection on arrival, customs bond. The buyer, already emotionally invested, pays again and again. The pet never existed.
Common red flags
- A premium breed offered free or at an unusually low price with an emotional backstory
- Seller asks for payment by wire transfer, gift card, or money order
- Each payment leads to another unexpected fee before delivery
- Seller is overseas or unable to arrange an in-person meeting or video call with the animal
- Photos reverse image search to other websites or prior advertisements
- Shipping company emails come from free email domains and have generic branding
How to protect yourself
- Always see any pet in person before paying anything
- Never pay for a pet via wire transfer, gift card, or money order
- Reverse image search all pet photos before engaging with a seller
- Verify the breeder through national kennel clubs or recognised breeder registries
- If a shipping company contacts you for fees, research them independently before paying
How to report it
- Report the listing on Facebook Marketplace or the Group post
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov (US) or Action Fraud (UK)
- If money was sent by wire transfer, contact your bank immediately to attempt a recall
Frequently asked questions
Why are premium breeds offered free or cheaply in pet scams?
The low or zero price is the hook. It bypasses financial caution and creates urgency — buyers worry someone else will take the pet. The real money is made through the escalating fees that follow.
Is it ever safe to buy a pet you cannot see in person first?
The risk is very high. Reputable breeders and shelters will always facilitate a visit or video call with the animal. Anyone who insists on remote payment before you can see the pet is a serious red flag.