Fairfield Animal Control Issues Warning On Missing Pet Scams

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield Animal Control is alerting residents to a scam reported recently in a neighboring community involving a missing dog.

Authorities said an individual contacted a dog’s owner while posing as an animal control officer. The caller told the owner the dog had been struck by a vehicle and required emergency veterinary treatment, then requested immediate payment over the phone. Officials said the call was a scam.

Fairfield Animal Control said it has not received reports of similar incidents in town but is advising residents to remain cautious.

Officials emphasized that Fairfield Animal Control and the Fairfield Police Department do not request payment over the phone for emergency veterinary care. Residents are urged not to provide credit card or other payment information to anyone claiming to have their pet and to be wary of callers who create a sense of urgency or pressure immediate action.

Anyone who receives a call of this nature should hang up and contact authorities directly. Residents can reach Fairfield Animal Control at 203-254-4857 or the Fairfield Police Department’s non-emergency line at 203-254-4800.

Authorities noted that scams often rely on urgency and emotional distress, and said taking time to verify information can help prevent financial loss.