When a pet goes missing, it can send families into a tailspin of emotion and grief. Posting “missing” signs around town and on social media can help with locating a missing pet and returning it to owners. But unfortunately, scammers have found a way to make it more difficult.
The Bedford County Sheriff's Office recently released information about a new scam that has affected area citizens with missing pets. The scammer contacts the pet owner and claims their “neighbor” found their missing dog. When the owner asks for the address, the scammer claims they gave their “neighbor” money to help care for the dog, then insists the pet owner give the scammer money before giving out the contact information.
“Please do not send or give anyone money or gift cards if you are not 100% sure it's [a legitimate person] on the other end of the phone or text,” noted the Bedford County Sheriff's Office. “Also, make sure [to educate] our elderly so they do not fall for all the scams that are attempted daily on them.”
Here are some steps to take should your pet go missing:
- Contact local authorities: Call your local animal control agency or dog warden. In rural areas, you can call the police.
- Report to your microchip company: Contact your pet's microchip company to let them know that your pet is missing.
- Contact animal shelters and rescue center: Report your pet missing to local animal shelters and animal rescue centers.
- Use a national database: Use a reputable national database like Petco Love Lost, Pet FBI, Regional Center for Animcal Care and Protection or 24Petwatch to report your missing pet.
- Create “lost pet” signs: Make signs with your pet's photo and other related information and place them in approved areas in your neighborhood, post offices, libraries, pet supply stores, veterinary offices and grocery stores.
- Check with neighborhood groups: Check with local neighborhood groups on Nextdoor, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
- Inform your veterinarian and groomer: Let your veterinarian and groomer know that your pet is lost.
To report a scam, you can contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) online at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877.FTC-HELP (1.877.382.4357) or contact your local law enforcement agency.
