Colorado Shelters Warn of Emotional Scam Targeting Pet Owners
Animal shelters across Colorado are raising awareness about a scam that exploits pet owners’ emotions, claiming their pets are injured and require urgent medical care.
The Scam
Scammers are calling pet owners and falsely claiming their pets have been injured and are in need of expensive emergency surgery. They demand a $500 deposit, insisting on payment via credit card over the phone.
The Denver Animal Shelter has confirmed that it does not contact pet owners regarding medical emergencies or missing pets. Furthermore, the shelter only accepts payments in person. Despite this, the scam has persisted, with reports of several victims every few weeks falling for the false claims.
Deceptive Tactics
The scam often involves highly convincing methods. For instance, the Dumb Friends League Buddy Center in Castle Rock has reported instances where scammers use their name and location to demand as much as $1,300 from victims. In some cases, scammers manipulate caller ID to display the shelter’s actual phone number, adding credibility to their claims and making it even harder for pet owners to recognize the fraud.
Shelters’ Advice to Pet Owners
Colorado animal shelters are urging pet owners to stay vigilant. Here’s what they recommend:
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls demanding payment for your pet’s emergency care.
- Verify any claims by directly contacting the shelter or animal control agency.
- Remember that legitimate shelters do not demand payment over the phone.
The Impact on Victims
This scam not only causes financial losses but also adds emotional distress to families already concerned about their missing pets. Pet owners are encouraged to share this warning with others to help prevent further victimization.
By staying informed and cautious, pet owners can protect themselves from falling prey to these deceptive tactics. Shelters across Colorado remain committed to supporting pet owners and ensuring their trust is not misused.
