Skip to content
Logo_color

Be Careful of Pet Scams

Starwood Does Not Sell Animals

Pet scams are rampant online and many scammers are using the names of legitimate pet transport companies to get your money. Here are some things to watch out for and resources you can use.

Starwood does not sell any puppies, kittens, or any other type of animal. We typically do not work with breeders or transport puppies or kittens. We do not work with people selling animals on social media such as Facebook or Craigslist. We work directly with clients who already have a cat or dog and they need to relocate them for a variety of reasons.

Starwood does not ask for last-minute "transport" or "insurance" fees nor do we ask for any "refundable" fees for any service, especially a "thermal electronic crate." If someone is communicating with you about these things, they are NOT legitimate and you are likely being scammed. 

This is our ONLY business website (starwoodpet.com) and our only business email is info@starwoodpet.com. If someone sends you another link or email address, then it is not legitimate.

full-service

What To Look Out For

Emails or websites with poor grammar or spelling.

Fake websites or email addresses.

Only communicates via email, WhatsApp, Facebook, or other social media platforms.

Requires you to wire money to them or use payment methods such as Western Union, MoneyGram, Zelle, CashApp, Venmo or gift cards.

Claims an animal is "free" but you have to pay for things like a transport fee, special crate, or insurance. Claims fees are "refundable."

full-service

Keep Yourself Safe

Do your homework! Research not only the transportation company but the breeder or seller of the animal.

Ask to do a video call with the seller and the animal so you can ensure the pet is legitimate.

Verify the email, website, and phone number of the person or company you are speaking with.

Consider adopting a pet locally instead! 

full-service

How to Report a Scam

File a report with local law enforcement.

File a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

Contact the website where you saw the ad to report them.

Speak with your bank or the company you used to send the money to see if you can get a refund.

Pet Scam Resources

Pet Scam Blogs