Cruel Fraud Targeting Owners of Lost Pets

Cruel Fraud Targeting Owners of Lost Pets

We’ve been made aware of a particularly heartless scam affecting people who are advertising their missing pets.

Scammers are actively monitoring social media posts, posters, and online adverts for lost animals. They are then contacting owners while pretending to be staff from a local veterinary practice. The caller will claim that your pet has been found, but is seriously injured and required urgent surgery.

They will then pressure you into paying a large vet’s bill over the phone before you can be reunited with your pet.

This is a cruel tactic that preys on the emotional distress and love people have for their pets.

Do not make any payments over the phone to someone who has contacted you unexpectedly.

Verify the claim independently – contact your local veterinary surgery directly using a trusted number (not the one provided by the caller).

If possible, use a different phone to the one you were contacted on when making checks.

Be wary of pressure tactics – scammers will try to rush you into making a payment.

Ask for proof – a genuine vet will be able to provide clear details and allow you to attend in person.

Never share personal or financial details with unknown callers.

If you receive a suspicious call like this:

Do not engage or send money

Report it to Action Fraud

Please share this message to help protect others.

Scammers are exploiting people at their most vulnerable – let’s not give them the opportunity.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Wesley Smith
(Police, PCSO, Cherwell and West)