Watch out for scams if you’re buying a pet

Britain is a nation of animal lovers - and scammers are taking full advantage of that, tricking unsuspecting people out of thousands of pounds.

Santander UK has seen a surge in the number of pet scams being reported in the last few months.

In fact, nearly £160,000 was stolen between January and March this year from people responding to fake listings online.

That’s up from £29,735 in the fourth quarter of 2025.

This means pet scams are now one of the most common types of fraud, second only to vehicle scams in terms of money lost.

What tactics are scammers using?

Scammers often post fake ads for pets on social media and online marketplaces.

On the face of it, they look completely genuine, with photos of the animal and convincing descriptions.

Once you show some interest, the scammer might ask for money upfront, perhaps to:

• act as a deposit
• cover the delivery of the pet
• cover vet bills and immunisations

But after the payment has been made, the seller disappears, so you have no way to get your money back.

Who is being targeted?

Anyone can fall victim to a scam.

But Santander’s figures show that women are more likely to be targeted, along with people aged 46 and over.

So it’s really important to be vigilant if you’re thinking of buying a new pet and looking for a good deal online.

Research sellers before buying pets

If you’re tempted by an ad online and thinking of making a payment, it’s worth taking steps to make sure it’s genuine.

For example, you could reverse image search any photos to see if the animal has been pictured elsewhere or listed on other platforms.

You could even ask to see the animal in-person before committing to anything.

“If 2026 is the year you plan to welcome a furry, feathered or even scaly companion into your home, it’s vital to do your homework,” said Chris Ainsley of Santander UK.

“Always research the seller carefully and choose reputable sources. 

“Taking these steps won’t just protect your finances - it also helps ensure your new pet has come from a safe and responsible environment.”

What to do if you’ve been scammed

Although there’s no guarantee of getting your money back if you fall victim to a scammer, there are steps that could be worth taking.

Contact your bank immediately

If you’ve sent money, call your bank or card provider straight away. 

They may be able to reverse the payment or refund you under the Authorised Push Payment (APP) scam rules.

Cancel your card

If you shared card details, cancel your card immediately through your banking app or by calling your bank.

Report the scam

You can report fraud to:

• Action Fraud - the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre (online or 0300 123 2040)
• The police - call 101

Keep copies of messages, screenshots, and any communication. These may be needed by your bank or if you make a complaint later.

For more tips and advice on staying safe, check out our handy guides on how to spot a scam and outsmarting online scammers.