Before you meet
- Confirm identity basics through your MateLoop messages — name, suburb, and that they still want this specific pet.
- Agree a time and place. Busy parks or staffed public areas suit many first meetings; home visits need extra care.
- Prepare microchip details, vet records, food sample, lead or carrier, and any keys to a crate.
- Tell a friend where you are going and when you expect to be done.
On the day
Keep the animal secure until you are comfortable. For dogs, a lead and calm space beat a chaotic car-park greeting. For cats, open the carrier only in a closed room.
If money is changing hands, prefer traceable methods you are comfortable with. Do not hand over the pet before you have agreed terms clearly.
Red flags
Pressure to meet alone at night, refusal to show a carrier or car setup, requests to ship urgently interstate without checks, or stories that keep changing.
You can cancel. A delayed rehome is better than an unsafe one.
After handover
Remind the new owner to update microchip and council registration. Stay available for a few sensible questions about food and routine — then let them settle.
Safety tips only — not legal, financial or police advice. If you feel unsafe, leave and contact local authorities.