Richmond, Va. — Animal shelters and pet owners in the Richmond area are facing a troubling rise in scams that have left many feeling vulnerable and deceived.
The Richmond SPCA has reported an alarming increase in fraudulent activity, particularly targeting both local animal shelters and pet guardians. The scams have been preying on the anxiety and distress of pet owners who have posted lost pet flyers online, with scammers posing as staff members from animal shelters.
These scammers contact pet owners with false claims that their missing pet has been found but is suffering from serious injuries, requiring emergency surgery. They then demand payment for the alleged medical procedure through payment services such as Zelle.
The Richmond SPCA revealed that it became aware of this scam just last week after its phone number was spoofed by the perpetrators, making it appear as though the shelter was calling pet owners. In a troubling pattern, both Richmond Animal Care and Control, as well as the Richmond Animal League, have reported similar incidents in which their phone numbers were also misused in fraudulent schemes.
In addition to these phone scams, a separate scam has emerged involving fake charity profiles on Venmo. At least two profiles have been identified that are impersonating the Richmond SPCA, using the shelter’s logo and soliciting donations from unsuspecting individuals. These scams involve the fraudulent profiles sending payment requests to people, claiming to be raising funds for the organization.
In light of these deceptive practices, the Richmond SPCA has issued a public advisory urging the public to exercise caution. The organization is advising people to verify the identity of any entity requesting donations, particularly through unfamiliar payment apps, and to double-check any contact information provided in connection with lost pet claims.
“We want to remind the community to be vigilant when it comes to verifying the legitimacy of calls or messages about lost pets or donations. Scammers are using every trick in the book to take advantage of people’s goodwill and concern for their pets,” said a spokesperson for the Richmond SPCA.
The rise in these scams serves as a stark reminder for pet owners and animal welfare organizations to remain alert and cautious in their interactions, particularly when money is involved. Authorities encourage those who encounter suspicious activity to report it immediately to local law enforcement or the organizations being impersonated.
As scammers continue to exploit the kindness and empathy of Richmond residents, the SPCA and other local shelters are working to raise awareness and prevent further exploitation of the community.
