Pet safety: buying & selling

Before you buy a pet

Meet the animal in person and in a suitable environment before committing. Ask for vaccination records and, where relevant, vet documents. Ask about age, breed, temperament, diet and health history. Be very careful with sellers who cannot show you the animal, who rush the sale, or who ask for deposits before you meet the pet. See the Adoption policy for rehoming guidance.

Before you rehome a pet

Be honest about age, breed, gender, health and vaccinations. Provide real photos taken recently. Give the new owner a fair chance by sharing feeding and care basics. Never rehome an animal you cannot legally keep or sell.

What must never happen

Sold pets must not come from cruelty, fighting, illegal trade or poor conditions. Never list a pet that is microchipped to another owner without the right documents, and never sell a pet that is too young or not fit for sale under local law.

Payments

Deposits for pets are a common scam. Where you pay a deposit, agree clearly and consider using a traceable method. Never pay the full amount before seeing the animal.

Report welfare concerns

If you believe an animal is being mistreated or traded illegally, report it. Use the report button or the Animal welfare page.