Humane Rescue Alliance warns of pet scam targeting owners

Scammers across several regions, including Washington D.C., Maryland, and Florida, are targeting pet owners who have lost their pets by posing as animal shelter workers or veterinarians and claiming to have found their missing animals. These scammers exploit vulnerable owners by demanding urgent payments for supposed emergency medical care, often spoofing official phone numbers to appear legitimate. Victims are typically contacted after posting personal information on lost pet websites or social media, and the scammers may become aggressive or flustered when pressed for details or verification. Animal welfare organizations emphasize that they never demand money over the phone to return lost pets and advise owners to verify any such claims directly with the agency. Officials recommend contacting law enforcement or reputable animal services to confirm any suspicious communication and to avoid sending money or sharing personal information. The scam has caused emotional distress and financial loss for pet owners desperate to be reunited with their animals.