Animal Services Lost/Found Pet Scam
Category:
Lost/Found/Stray Pets
Washoe County recently learned a of a scam where individuals are contacted by someone claiming they found their lost pet and may request monetary compensation to return it. Scammers will often identify themselves as a shelter/government employee.
Below, are some tips to avoid this type of scam:
Below, are some tips to avoid this type of scam:
WCRAS encourages someone that receives a call from someone claiming to have found their animal to ask a lot of questions.
- Ask finder for a description of the pet, and if there are any identifying markings, scars, etc.
- Ask finder for a photo of the animal to be sent as proof that the finder really does have the animal
- Ask finder for a phone number to recontact to finder
Other tips:
- Do not put a full description of your pet in your lost animal post
- Do not put the animal’s name in the post
- Do not send money via Paypal, Zelle, Cashapp, Venmo or money transfer kiosks
- Call the formal agency that is being reported to have your animal, if someone is claiming to be an employee of an animal shelter or other organization
Updated 8/1/2025 11:48 AM