Is a pet-sitting or dog-walking job found on Craigslist or a classifieds site safe?
Proceed carefully. Pet care jobs on classifieds sites are frequently overpayment scams or personal-data harvesting operations.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
The pet care overpayment scam follows a predictable pattern. Someone responds to your pet-sitting ad — or posts their own — and offers more than the advertised rate. They send a cheque for significantly more than agreed and ask you to forward the surplus to a pet transport company or groomer. The cheque bounces days later and you are liable for the full amount forwarded. A separate version involves a job post offering high pay for simple pet care, then asking for extensive personal information — passport, bank details — before 'processing your application'. Legitimate pet care work is arranged in person, payments are made directly at the correct amount, and no employer needs your passport before a single walking shift.
Common red flags
- Client offers to pay more than the agreed rate
- Cheque or money order used rather than a direct digital payment
- Request to forward surplus funds to a third party
- Job advert asks for personal ID documents before any work begins
- Client is travelling and cannot meet in person before paying
What to do now
- Refuse any overpayment and return unexplained surpluses immediately
- Never forward money to a third party on behalf of a new client
- Verify a client's identity before starting any job
- Report overpayment approaches to the classifieds platform
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to accept payment through an app for pet care?
Digital payment apps are safer than cheques. Use apps with buyer and seller protection, receive payment before starting work for new clients, and only accept the agreed amount.