Alert : Lost Pet Scams

Fraudsters exploit owners’ distress by taking advantage of lost pet listings. Pretending to have found the animal, they demand money for “care costs” or “temporary shelter”.

Fake Lost Pet Rescues

Scammers contact pet owners through social media or ad platforms, often just hours after a post. They claim to have found the animal and request money to “treat” or “return” it.

The Modus Operandi

Some use fake photos; others send falsified veterinary receipts. In several cases, they demand urgent payments via transfer or prepaid card. Once paid, all communication stops.
Signs: foreign phone number, vague pet details, refusal to send a recent photo.

Some Tips:

• 📸 Always request a recent photo or real proof before sending money.
• 🚫 Never pay to get your pet back; shelters and vets do not ask for remote payments.
• 🐶 Post your ads only on reputable platforms (e.g., I-CAD, PetAlert, Petfinder).
• 📞 Contact shelters or local councils before taking action.
• 📢 Report fraud attempts to Action Fraud (UK) or FTC (US).

Conclusion

Scammers exploit emotions—stay calm and cautious. No legitimate organisation will ask for money to return a lost animal.

For assistance if you are a victim:
List of trusted anti-fraud websites to help consumers

Written by : René Ronse
Methodology : Our alert articles are based on regular monitoring of national reporting platforms, feedback from victims, and statements issued by relevant authorities.
About the author : René Ronse, manager of ArnaqueOuFiable.com. Expert in consumer cybersecurity, specialist in detecting online fraud, product transparency, and digital compliance. He has over 20 years of experience analyzing hidden subscription mechanisms, unreadable terms and conditions, aggressive sales tactics, and deceptive commercial practices on the web.
Sources : police.be | petfbi.org | internationalanimalrescue.org | franceinfo.fr
Last updated : 28 October 2025.
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