How to Avoid Pet Scams in Texas
Smart Tips to Help You Buy (or Sell) Pets Safely Online
Pet lovers in Texas, we’ve got your back. Whether you’re looking for your dream puppy or finding a new home for your cat, scams are sadly part of the online pet world. But don’t worry—this guide gives you the must-know tips to keep you safe.
🚨 Why Scams Happen
Scammers take advantage of emotions. They know people get excited about pets—and they use fake photos, pushy messages, or too-good-to-be-true prices to get your money fast.
Common tactics:
- Fake listings with stolen pet photos
- Asking for upfront payments then disappearing
- Claiming urgent situations (“Leaving the country tomorrow!”)
- Offering rare breeds for low prices
🧠 1. Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, it probably is.
- Does the seller avoid phone calls or video chats?
- Are they pressuring you to pay quickly?
- Is the price way below average?
Walk away. There are plenty of genuine pet owners and breeders out there.
📸 2. Ask for Real Proof
Request a recent photo of the pet with a specific item (e.g. today’s newspaper, a tennis ball, or a spoon). This proves the pet exists and isn’t just a photo grabbed from the internet.
Bonus tip: Ask for a video of the pet interacting with the seller.
🗣️ 3. Talk to the Person
Always call or video chat before committing. Scammers hate real-time interaction. Genuine sellers will be happy to chat and share details.
Questions to ask:
- How old is the pet?
- What food are they on?
- What’s their routine?
- Can I meet them?
💸 4. Never Pay with Gift Cards or Crypto
Scammers love untraceable payments.
Safe options:
- Cash in person
- Secure payment apps (if you’re sure the seller is real)
- Escrow services (where payment is held until pet is received)
Never pay until you’re confident—and definitely not before seeing the pet in person.
🏠 5. Insist on a Local Pickup
If someone won’t let you see the pet or arrange pickup, that’s a red flag.
Better yet—use a local platform like PetSales Texas, where we encourage real, face-to-face connections.
📝 6. Check the Paperwork
Good sellers provide:
- Vet records
- Microchip details
- Health certificates (especially for puppies)
- Registration (for purebreds)
If they “lost the paperwork” or “don’t have time to get it,” be cautious.
🧼 7. Watch for Fake Shipping Services
Scammers may claim the pet is with a courier service that needs more money for “insurance” or “air-conditioned crates.” These services often don’t exist.
When in doubt, contact the courier company directly to verify.
🔒 How PetSales Texas Helps Keep You Safe
- Verified listings
- User report tools
- Scam-blocking systems
- Community guidelines for ethical pet sales
We care about your safety—and your future pet’s welfare.
🧡 Final Advice: Take Your Time
Scammers rush you. Real pet adoptions take care, time, and trust.
Don’t skip steps just because a pet “looks perfect.” You deserve a happy, safe pet experience.
📢 Bonus Tip: Use a Virtual Number
Want extra privacy? PetSales Texas offers a Virtual Phone Number option for sellers. This protects your personal number and keeps your inbox spam-free.
👉 Learn More About Virtual Numbers
📍 Found a Suspected Scam?
Report it immediately via our Contact Page. We’ll investigate and help keep our community safe.
✅ Want More Safe Pet Tips?
- Pet Pickup Checklist
- [How to Rehome a Pet Without Regret]
- [Top Questions to Ask Before Adopting]
PetSales Texas is here to make sure every tail has a happy ending.
Stay smart. Stay safe. And if in doubt—reach out. 🐾
