Pet Scam Alert: Arizona Humane Society Warns of Lost Pet Fraud

PHOENIX – The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) is alerting pet owners to a recent surge in scams targeting individuals whose animals are missing, according to a community alert issued this week.

Scammers are reportedly contacting pet owners through online platforms and by phone, falsely claiming to have located the lost animal and demanding payment for its return. The fraudulent scheme centers around fabricated emergency veterinary expenses, with perpetrators requesting funds before handing over the pet.

“We understand how stressful and emotional it can be when a pet is missing, and it’s upsetting that anyone would take advantage of that vulnerable moment,” said AHS spokesperson Kelsey Dickerson in a statement released on Monday, March 24, 2026.

AHS officials emphasize that the organization will never request payment over the phone for medical care for a lost pet. They also confirmed that any legitimate communication from AHS regarding a found animal will always include an official Animal Identification number in any voicemail, text message, or email. The absence of this identification number is a key indicator of a scam, according to the AHS.

The scam has prompted a warning from authorities, urging pet owners to contact law enforcement if they receive suspicious calls or messages demanding money for a recovered pet. AHS also advises individuals to refrain from sending any funds to unverified sources.

Even as AHS does charge fees for the return of lost pets, including costs associated with boarding and veterinary care, these fees are always discussed in person when the owner comes to reclaim their animal, not requested remotely, according to the organization.

Pet owners seeking information about lost or found animals are encouraged to visit azhumane.org/LostPet for resources and guidance on safely reuniting with their pets. The Arizona Humane Society issued the initial alert on March 24, 2026, and continues to monitor the situation.