Little Rock, Arkansas – A lost pet this spring could make owners targets of a scam that costs them cash without bringing their animal home.
Local agencies warn that scammers monitor social media platforms for posts about missing pets and quickly reach out claiming the animal has been found. The callers often say the pet needs emergency veterinary treatment and demand immediate payment before arranging a reunion.
Officials say the scheme preys on panic and urgency. Scammers may reuse photos from original lost pet posts to appear credible, increasing emotional pressure on already distressed owners. Victims are frequently instructed to send money through digital payment apps, wire transfers, or prepaid cards…