PET SCAM IN PALM BEACH COUNTY: Officials Again Warn Pet Owners

BY: STAFF REPORT | BocaNewsNow.com

BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2024 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Owners of lost pets in Palm Beach County are being warned that scammers are seeking them out — preying on their emotions to make a quick buck. Authorities say the scammers can social media sites to look for locals who have lost their pets, then claim they’ll return the pets in exchange for a payment. Here’s what Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control shared with BocaNewsNow.com:

Palm Beach County Department of Public Safety Animal Care and Control Division (PBCACC) wants to let the community know that scammers have recently targeted owners of lost pets. Concerned community members who post their contact information on one of several lost pet websites (links below) are receiving calls and text messages from someone identifying themselves as an employee of ACC.

PetCo Love Lost
PawBoost
Loxahatchee Lost and Found (FB Page)
NextDoor
SNAP
The callers are reporting that the lost animals are injured and that the owners need to immediately send money to address the urgent medical needs of their pets to save their lives.

PBCACC will NOT ask for money over the phone or via text message to reclaim animals and will continue to treat injured animals while trying to track down their owners. If you receive a suspicious call, please report it to law enforcement and the agency where your lost pet is listed. Please DO NOT transfer money to anyone who calls regarding your lost pet. Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control (PBCACC) is dedicated to promoting the health, safety, and welfare of both people and animals the community.

For more information on PBCACC’s services, please visit our website or contact us directly. Join PBCACC in making Palm Beach County a safe and compassionate place for all animals.

Contact Information: Website: pbcgov.org/animal. Phone: 561-233-1200 Address: 7100 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, FL, 33411