Buy and sell with confidence

Before you pay

• See the animal in person, or on a live video call, before paying anything.
• Never pay a deposit to someone you haven't met.
• Ask for vaccination and deworming records, and check them.
• Meet somewhere you're comfortable, and take someone with you.

Spotting a scam

• Prices far below what the breed usually costs.
• Pressure to pay quickly to “hold” the animal.
• Sellers who only offer courier delivery and won't let you visit.
• Extra fees after you've paid, for transport, insurance or a vet.
• Photos that look like stock images or appear in other ads.

Buying responsibly

• Puppies and kittens should usually stay with their mother until at least 8 weeks old.
• Ask to see the mother and where the animals are kept.
• For fish and shrimp, ask about water parameters and how they've been kept.
• Consider adopting from a verified shelter or rescue.

For sellers

• Let buyers contact you through the listing buttons rather than posting your number.
• Be wary of buyers who offer to overpay or pay in unusual ways.
• Only hand over an animal once you're happy it's going to a good home.

If something goes wrong

Report the listing or seller from their page so we can act on it. If you've lost money, report it to SAPS. For animal welfare concerns, contact your local SPCA.