There is a scam that has been hitting pet owners nationally that has recently resurfaced, impacting those who have recently lost (and are looking for) their pet or those who have their pet being attended to medically for surgical purposes.

Here in Las Vegas, it’s been reported that scammers are monitoring Facebook and other social media platforms for posts related to pets soon to undergo surgery. From that point, they’re contacting the pet owner after sourcing their phone numbers, impersonating representatives from the vet, shelter, or rescue, making claims that the payment must be made immediately for their beloved pet’s surgery or it will not take place. In some cases, it’s stated, they’ve even provided a “payment link” to execute the payment.

Reported in Broward County, FL, and other areas, taking a similar approach, thieves are watching posts such as Nextdoor, Ring, Facebook, Pawboost, and flyers posted to find pet owners who have lost their pet. They are then contacting the owners, again impersonating representatives from the city, vets, shelters, and rescues, stating the animal has been harmed while lost and needs immediate surgery or face being euthanized.

So, what do you do if you receive a call? Don’t engage with the individual on the phone. That’s easy to say, but what does this mean? Don’t share any details about your pet nor provide any personal information, and do not pay the individual who called, even if they provide a payment link. Despite it being a stressful call to answer, try to document all details they’ve shared with you, including the number they’re calling from, what they stated their name was, who they were supposedly calling from, and any other details they share with you.

After ending the call, first contact your provider who has your pet or who they claimed has your pet. Most vets, shelters, the city, or rescues will have supporting information for you and typically not expect on-demand payment without you having been previously aware of it. Your next step will be to report the call and share the information you’ve compiled with the local authorities and Animal Control for your area. If you’re interested in taking reporting a step further, you can also report to the FTC, Nevada Attorney General, and the BBB.

As we all know, in the realm of pet ownership, the bond between us and our pets is strong and at times makes us vulnerable to scammers who target moments where we’re already emotionally sensitive. Stay aware and err on the side of caution. If you receive a call you deem suspicious or seems out of character for your pet care facility, take the extra precautions to verify all information before engaging or sending funds.