Manatee County: Sheriff's Office is Warning About Pet Sale Scams
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating multiple reports of "Pet Sale Scams"... They posted the following warning on their social media.
PET SALE SCAMS : We are investigating multiple reports of fraudulent pet sales on social media. Please use caution when arranging sales online. Victims have been asked to transfer money or gift cards to reserve a pet in advance, and never receive the animal.
We suggest buyers confirm the pet sale is from a reputable seller and visit the animal prior to any exchange of currency. We also encourage you to get a receipt for deposit showing the seller’s confirmed identification. A reputable seller usually provides that information.