Lost Pet Scams to Avoid
Be aware of these common scams used on Lost pet owners.
When you post a lost cat on Facebook or Instagram, report comments recommending fake pet detectives who are not Certified with no verifiable track record or Google Reviews.
COMMON LOST PET SCAM LIST
Typical Lost Cat Scams
-
Owner gets a call from a shelter that their cat was found but injured and they need cash to start treatment. Scammers can even spoof a real vet or shelter number. Do not trust anyone who cannot send a photo of your cat.
-
Someone calls or texts asking for a 6-digit code to prove you're the lost pet's owner. Do not give it out, even if you get a Google alert. They're trying to get your Google login code to hack into your data. They may claim to be a rescue on Instagram, Facebook, or even a vet or drone company.
-
Avoid/report comments on Lost Pet Facebook groups / Instagram advising you to call a certain group or fake /spoofed organization. They claim a certain rescue squad "Found my pet in 24 hours, and can find yours, too." Don't click the link. Check the name on a new page to see if they're certified on MARN or Google Reviews. They may change names with each comment or post.
-
Caller claims they're a breeder from out of state. They say someone approached them with your lost cat and wanted to sell it. The caller wants money for vet bills or gas to bring the pet back.
-
Caller claims to have found your lost pet but can't keep it so they gave it to someone else to care for while they looked for the owner. Caller says they bought food and supplies and wants to be reimbursed. They ask for smallish amounts of money, like $25-$75 to give you the name or address of the person who has the pet.
-
A person/ kid calls or texts saying they saw the cat deceased. Then miraculously, the cat comes home a few days later. Usually a cruel prank. If you're not sure if it might be legit, ask for exact address and date. Ask them to meet you where they saw it. Take someone with you and go during during daylight hours.
DON’T GIVE UP
Avoid these lost pet scams. Don't listen to people who aren't supportive. Your cat is out there somewhere. Stay calm and use the strategy that's right for your cat's situation and personality. Statistics show owners who use the pro strategies from the Lost Cat Kit triple their chances of finding their lost cat. Stay positive and keep up your search at least three months.
Don't give up!
Tips compiled courtesy of Lost Cat Finder.com