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The Denver Animal Shelter is alerting the public to a dangerous scam that preys on pet owners seeking their lost animals.
The scam, which had been circulating for several months, has resurfaced during the holiday season, tricking people into thinking their pets are in urgent need of medical attention.
How the Scam Works
According to the shelter, scammers contact pet owners claiming their lost pets have been found and are at the shelter. The caller falsely reports that the pet was hit by a car and requires emergency surgery.
However, the scammer demands a $500 deposit to begin treatment, which must be paid via credit card over the phone.
The scam is particularly deceptive as the phone number appears as 311, Denver’s main information line, making it seem like a legitimate call.
The Denver Animal Shelter has urged pet owners to remain vigilant and not trust calls asking for money in exchange for veterinary care.
The shelter does not ask for deposits over the phone, especially for emergency treatments.
