•    The Gumtree Pets section is to help the community find good, safe, caring homes for animals. All ads placed in the Gumtree Pets section must comply with the Gumtree Pets Code of Practice. We've recently made some changes to our Pets Code of Practice so please be sure to check it out.

•    Failure to comply with the Code of Practice will result in the removal of the infringing ad and could result in user restrictions.

•    The pets section is NOT intended to facilitate uncontrolled breeding, irresponsible commercial pet trading, trade of dogs or any other animal for the purpose of fighting or stud services. For this reason, dog breeders are permitted to post a maximum of three breeds only on Gumtree (including mixed breeds). Posting more than three, even if only three are advertised on the site at one time, is not permitted. Any ads suspected of this kind of activity will be removed.

•    Users are responsible for adhering to the applicable conditions in relation to buying, selling or listing of an ad on Gumtree.

•    Dogs and cats put up for adoption/sale on Gumtree must be vaccinated and vet checked and this must be stated in the ad.

•    Gumtree encourages, where possible, the adoption of pets and would encourage all pet owners to have their animals desexed and micro-chipped. For further tips and advice on responsible pet ownership, please have a look at our Gumtree Guide to Responsible Animal Ownership.

•    We do not allow holding deposits of any kind for animals that are advertised on the Gumtree site.


If you are advertising your pet on Gumtree, here are some tips and guidelines:


•    Advertise through friends, neighbours, and local veterinarians first; then try Gumtree. Your chances of finding a good home are increased when you check references with someone you know.

•    Visit the prospective new home in order to get a feel for the environment in which, your pet will be living. Explain that the pet is part of your family and that you want to make sure he or she will be cared for. Screen potential homes carefully.

•    Don't be fooled. If anyone refuses to allow you to visit their home, do not place your pet with them. Individuals have been known to answer "free-to-good-home" ads, posing as people who want family pets when, in actual fact, they sell pets to animal dealers. Dogfighters have also been known to obtain domestic animals for baiting through "free-to-good-home" ads. These people are "professionals" who may even bring children or their mothers with them when picking up pets.

•    Always be mindful of your own safety when you go to interview potential adopters, or if you allow a prospective adopter to enter your home.

•    Carefully consider all the elements of the new home: Will your pet get along with small children? Is the family planning to keep the dog chained outside as a watch dog? Will the cat be kept only as a mouse catcher? Does the family have a veterinary reference? Do not be shy about asking questions. Your pet's life and happiness may depend on it.

•    Ask for a valid form of identification (preferably a driver's license). Record the number for your records and require the new owner to sign a contract stating the requirements of adoption upon which both parties agree. As part of the contract, require the new owner to contact you if he or she decides at some point that they must give up the pet.

•    Have your pet neutered or spayed before he or she goes to the new home. This will make the animal more adoptable and help stop irresponsible breeding.

•    If your pet is chronically ill or has behavioural problems, it may be difficult to find him a suitable home. A new owner may not be willing or able to deal with these issues, and it may also be difficult for the pet to adjust to a new home. The decision to humanely euthanize such a pet should not be made without thoughtful input from a veterinarian, a behaviourist, and the family, based on how well they believe their companion would adapt to a new home. Finding a quality home for your pet can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Remember: Your local animal shelter has a qualified staff trained to screen and counsel adopters. Relinquishing your pet to your local shelter may be the best option for you and your pet.

Ensure your advertisement isn't breaching any applicable laws. It is the responsibility of the advertiser before posting an ad on Gumtree that content advertised adheres to Gumtree Posting Policies (What are the General posting rules?) as well as applicable laws. As a condition of your use of Gumtree specified under our Gumtree Terms of Use, you agree that you will not violate any laws.

Gumtree has made these policies with the well-being of animals in mind ,and had constructed these policies in collaboration with the SPCA, Beauty without Cruelty (an animal rights organization), Ban animal trading, FOUR PAWS Animal Welfare Foundation, and the Gumtree community.