Lost pet "I found your dog" scam
After you post about a lost pet, scammers text claiming they have found it. They ask for money for a vet bill or shipping, or ask you to read back a code to "prove" you are the owner.
How this scam works
Worry about your pet makes you act fast. The scammer does not have your pet. The money is lost, and a shared code can let them take over your accounts.
Common versions of the message
- A finder who needs money first
- Payment by Zelle or a payment app
- A verification code to read back
What the message looks like
Text from +1 (555) 013-8851
I found your dog from your lost pet post! She's safe with me but I need $300 for the vet bill before I can bring her back. Send it on Zelle right away. To make sure you're the owner, read me the 6-digit code I just texted you.
Fictional example based on common, publicly reported scam patterns.
The red flags
- 1
Money first: “$300 for the vet bill”
A real finder will let you see your pet first
A real finder will let you see your pet, or send a photo you can check, before any money changes hands.
- 2
Rushed payment: “Send it on Zelle right away”
Zelle payments are hard to get back
Payment apps work like cash and are hard to get back.
- 3
Code request: “read me the 6-digit code”
The code is for your account, not proof of anything
A code is never proof of ownership. It is for your account.
What to do
- Ask for a current photo with something specific in it, and meet in a public place.
- Do not send money or share any code.
- Contact local shelters and your microchip company directly.
If you already replied, clicked, or paid
- If you sent money, call your bank right away.
- If you shared a code, change the password for that account and turn on two-step verification.
- Report the number to the platform where you posted.
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