Safe buying guide
What to check before you commit to bringing an animal home.
Before you contact a seller
Check the seller badge and compare the listing details with the photos. Ask about the animal’s age, temperament, living conditions, health history, and why it is being rehomed.
Before you agree to buy
Arrange to see the animal in person. Ask to see where it lives when appropriate. If an in-person visit is difficult, request a live video call as an initial check.
Before you pay
Ask for relevant vaccination and veterinary records, ownership paperwork, and any microchip details. Confirm the price and terms in writing. Avoid sending a deposit before you’ve independently verified the seller and met the animal. Walk away if someone pressures you to pay quickly or asks for gift cards or other hard-to-recover payments.
If something feels wrong
Stop the conversation and keep the listing URL, messages, and any payment records. Report the listing to AnimalsSale with a short explanation. If you already paid, contact your payment provider promptly.