Pet Sale Scams Investigated In Manatee County: Sheriff's Office

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Multiple reports of fraudulent pet sales on social media are being investigated by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The agency said buyers and sellers should “use caution when arranging sales online,” according to a Facebook post.

In some reports, victims were asked to transfer money or gift cards to reserve the purchase of a pet in advance, but never received the animal, MCSO said.

Buyers should confirm the pet sale is from a reputable seller and visit the animal before handing over any money, the sheriff’s office said. “We also encourage you to get a receipt for deposit showing the seller’s confirmed identification. A reputable seller usually provides that information.”