Thinking About Adopting a Pet? Watch Out for This Illinois Scam

Illinois families need to take extreme caution when adopting pets from third parties. Pet scams are on the rise and scammers are getting smarter.

We're not just talking about pet-fishing, like fake photos of pets you "think" you're adopting, no. Scammers are now using AI videos to make their listings look super convincing. The BBB started warning the public that these people aren't only stealing your money, they're putting you in dangerous situations.

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Pet Scams Are Back on the Rise in Illinois

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If you've been searching for the perfect furry companion for a while, and found a listing that looks either "too good to be true" or legitimate, tread lightly.

Before you send money to anyone for a pet adoption, here's what you should know:

Only buy from reputable breeders and organizations
Always see the pet in person or on a live call first
Do a "reverse image" search of the pet you're wanting to adopt
Research the average cost of the breed in the listing
Meet in a public place for your safety

More often than not, scammers steal photos of pets for their listings, charge way too much for the adoption fee, and will refuse a video call because the pet isn't real. Well, it's a real animal, just not in their possession.

If you're about to spend a pretty penny on the pet of your dreams, try an adoption shelter or rescue so you can meet the pet face-to-face and spend time with it before adopting. You're guaranteed a pet, won't lose out on any money, and know that the right pet will be worth the wait! You know what's not worth it? Giving someone all your money just to be scammed.

Stay safe this adoption season and do your research! Here are all the best adoption shelters around Illinois if you need some recommendations.