Beware: Common Lost Pet Scams and How to Avoid Them

Losing a pet is every pet owner’s nightmare. The sense of panic and desperation that comes with searching for your beloved friend can make you more susceptible to scams. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous individuals out there who prey on vulnerable pet owners during these distressing times. In this blog post, we’ll shed light on some common lost pet scams and provide tips on how to avoid falling victim to them.

The Fake Reward Scam: One of the most common scams involves someone claiming to have found your pet and demanding a reward for its return. They may provide vague descriptions of your pet or refuse to send photos until you agree to pay up front. In some cases, they might even ask for an exorbitant sum of money, preying on your emotions to extort you.
How to Avoid It: Always ask for clear, recent photos of your pet to confirm that the person claiming to have found them is genuine. Never agree to pay a reward unless you are comfortable doing so, and only after confirming that they indeed have your pet in their possession. If they refuse to provide proof or seem overly eager for payment, proceed with caution.
The Google Code Scam: A common lost pet scam often begins with a heartfelt plea or advertisement claiming to have found your pet. Typically, the scammer will request communication through email or messaging apps, citing convenience. In their correspondence, they might ask for details about your pet to verify ownership. They’ll claim that for security purposes or to confirm ownership, you need to provide them with an authentication code sent to your phone. Unbeknownst to many, this code grants them access to your Google account, potentially compromising sensitive information stored within.
How to Avoid It: Never give out authentication and security codes to another person, including anyone claiming to be a Google employee. There is no reason any well-meaning person would need verification codes sent to your phone or email.
The Imposter Pet Recovery Service: Scammers sometimes pose as legitimate pet recovery or “pet detective” services, promising to reunite you with your lost pet for a fee. They will often have a newly established social media page such as Instagram for their fake business. They may use convincing language and claim to have a high success rate, but in reality, they have no intention of helping you find your pet.
How to Avoid It: Research any pet recovery service thoroughly before engaging with them. Look for reviews from other pet owners and check if they have a legitimate online presence. Be wary of services that pressure you to pay large sums of money upfront or refuse to provide details about their methods.
The Phony Pet Microchip Scam: Some scammers target pet owners by claiming that they’ve found their lost pet’s microchip and offer to reunite them for a fee. They may provide fake information about the pet’s whereabouts or demand payment for updating the microchip registry.
How to Avoid It: Ensure that your pet’s microchip information is up to date with accurate contact details. If someone claims to have found your pet through its microchip, ask them to provide specific information about your pet that only the true finder would know. Additionally, contact the microchip registry directly to confirm any updates or changes to your pet’s information.

In conclusion, while losing a pet can be a heartbreaking experience, it’s essential to remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with potential scams. By being aware of common tactics used by scammers and taking proactive steps to verify the legitimacy of any claims or offers, you can protect yourself and increase the chances of being reunited with your beloved companion. Remember, genuine helpers and pet lovers are out there, but it’s crucial to discern between them and those looking to take advantage of a difficult situation.

June 27, 2023May 17, 2024 by Find a Paw

Safeguarding Your Furry Friends on the 4th of July

The 4th of July is an exciting time to celebrate the spirit of independence with fireworks, barbecues, and quality time spent with family and friends. However, amidst the festivities, it’s important not to overlook the potential risks that this holiday poses for our beloved animal companions. Loud fireworks, crowded gatherings, and heightened activity can lead to stress and anxiety in pets, potentially causing them to flee in search of safety. To ensure the well-being and security of your furry friends, here are some essential tips to keep them safe and prevent them from getting lost on Independence Day.

Create a Safe Environment Indoors

It’s best to keep your pets indoors during fireworks displays and parties. Even if your pet is typically calm and well-behaved, the loud noises and commotion can startle them, causing them to bolt or exhibit unpredictable behavior. Designate a quiet and secure space within your home where your pets can feel safe and comfortable during the celebrations. Close all doors and windows to minimize noise and prevent escape. Create a peaceful sanctuary with their favorite toys, bedding, and familiar scents to help ease their anxiety. Consider using white noise or playing calming music to help drown out the sound of fireworks.

Provide Identification

Ensure your pets are wearing collars with updated identification tags that include your current contact information. Consider adding a temporary tag with your cell phone number for added precaution. Microchipping is also highly recommended as a permanent form of identification, which greatly increases the chances of reuniting with your pet in case they do get lost.

Maintain Vigilance

Even with all precautions taken, accidents can still happen. Keep a close eye on your pets throughout the day and evening, and never leave them unattended. If you’re hosting a gathering, inform your guests about your pets and remind them to be mindful of open doors or gates, minimizing the risk of accidental escapes.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Before the festivities begin, engage your pets in ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. A tired and content pet is less likely to feel anxious and more likely to rest peacefully during the loud celebrations. Consider taking them for a long walk or engaging in a vigorous play session to help expend their energy.

Consult a Veterinarian

If your pet experiences extreme anxiety during fireworks, consult your veterinarian about potential calming aids or medications that can help alleviate their stress. There are various natural remedies and anxiety wraps available that can provide additional comfort to your furry friends.

Consider a Professional Pet Sitter

If you anticipate being away from home or unable to give your pets the attention they need during the holiday, consider hiring a professional pet sitter. They can provide one-on-one care and ensure your pets remain safe and secure, reducing the risk of them becoming lost due to fear or confusion.

The 4th of July is a time for celebration, but it’s crucial not to overlook the safety and well-being of our four-legged family members. By following these preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of your pets getting lost or experiencing undue stress during the holiday festivities. Remember, a little extra care and attention can go a long way in keeping your beloved companions safe and sound throughout the Independence Day celebrations.

March 4, 2023March 4, 2023 by Find a Paw

Wally – the Find a Paw Office Dog!

Wally the Bichon Frise

What better way to honor our office dog Wally than to write an article on his breed – the Bichon Frise. Wally lights our work space with his presence and is a daily reminder of our mission to reunite every lost pet with their owner! Thanks for all you do Wally. This one’s for you!

The Bichon Frise is a small breed of dog that is known for its friendly and playful nature. They are often referred to as “powder puffs” due to their fluffy, cotton ball-like appearance. Bichon Frises are affectionate, intelligent, and loyal, making them excellent family pets.

History

The Bichon Frise is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region, specifically in Spain. They are descendants of the Barbet, a French water dog, and were brought to Spain by sailors. In the 14th century, they were brought to Italy and became popular among the nobility. Eventually, they made their way to France, where they were favored by the French royalty and aristocracy.

The Bichon Frise was bred for companionship and was often used as lap dogs by wealthy families. During the Renaissance, they were used as circus dogs due to their ability to perform tricks and entertain crowds. They were also popular with organ grinders and street performers, as their playful nature and small size made them ideal for these roles.

Appearance

Bichon Frises are small dogs, standing around 9-11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 12-18 pounds. They have a white, curly coat that is hypoallergenic and does not shed, making them an ideal pet for people with allergies. Their round, dark eyes are one of their most endearing features and are often described as “sparkling.”

Temperament

Bichon Frises are known for their cheerful, friendly, and playful nature. They love to be around people and are great with children. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. However, they can be stubborn at times, so consistent training and positive reinforcement are essential.

Bichon Frises are social dogs and need plenty of interaction with their human family. They do not do well when left alone for long periods and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. They are also good with other pets, including cats and other dogs.

Health

Bichon Frises are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems include allergies, dental problems, and skin conditions. They are also prone to hip dysplasia and luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap moves out of place.

Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent many of these health issues.

Conclusion

The Bichon Frise is a lovable, playful, and adorable companion that makes an excellent family pet. They are easy to train, great with children and other pets, and have a hypoallergenic coat that does not shed. However, they do require plenty of interaction with their human family and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.

If you are looking for a small dog that is full of personality and makes a great companion, the Bichon Frise may be the perfect pet for you.

March 4, 2023March 4, 2023 by Find a Paw

What’s Behind That Doggy Lick?

We’ve all seen them do it—dogs licking themselves. It can be an amusing sight, particularly when they find that sweet spot on their hindquarters. But why do dogs lick themselves in the first place? Let’s take a look at the various reasons behind this behavior.

Dogs Lick to Clean Themselves

One of the most obvious functions of a dog licking itself is for grooming purposes. Dogs have evolved to use their tongues to groom like cats do with their paws, so licking helps them keep clean by removing dirt, debris, sweat, and other substances that could irritate their skin or coat. Plus, if you think about it, licking is much more convenient than having to take regular baths! Additionally, saliva contains enzymes that help break down oils in fur when a dog is licking itself.

Dogs Lick for Comfort

When dogs are feeling anxious or stressed out they may lick as a way of self-soothing. It can be similar to how humans might fidget with objects or bite their nails when they’re feeling nervous or overwhelmed. In addition, puppies will often lick their mothers before nursing as part of the bonding process—and later on in life they may continue this behavior as a way of showing affection towards their human family members. To make sure your pup isn’t licking too much because they feel anxious though, it’s important to watch for signs that something else might be going on. Has there been any change to their daily routine? Any new pets in the house? Licking is normally harmless, but you don’t want the dreaded hotspot.

Dogs Lick for Taste

Dogs have taste buds too—just not as many as we humans do! They may also lick something because it smells interesting; especially if there is food involved! If a dog finds something tasty (or even just interesting) on the ground, he might decide to give himself a quick sample by giving it a good lick first! This type of licking is usually harmless but keep an eye out for any potential hazards such as broken glass or sharp objects that could pose harm if ingested. This explains why owners often find their furry friends licking the carpet for seemingly no reason. Better safe than sorry!

As you can see, there are numerous reasons why your pup might start giving themselves some love in the form of licks now and then. The next time you catch your furry friend cleaning up after himself with his tongue, remember—it’s all part of being a dog! As long as they’re not excessively licking themselves due to underlying anxiety issues, there’s no need to stop them from enjoying this natural behavior. After all—who doesn’t love a good self-grooming session now and then?

September 21, 2020March 4, 2023 by Find a Paw

Pros and Cons of Dog Leashes

I live on acreage in the country and see dogs roaming free off-leash all of the time.

They chase my car as I drive by. Some just sit lethargically under a tree while others lie in the road and act like I’m in their way.

The owners of these dogs don’t seem to worry that they might get hit by a car, attacked by a coyote, or kidnapped by someone who wants to do them harm. They obviously trust that their dog is safe and can handle whatever bad things may come their way. They simply don’t worry.

I kind of envy these folks because I am the exact opposite type of dog owner.

It’s not that I don’t believe dogs should be allowed to run free, because I do. They deserve it. Even though we have the land, I still have him on a leash 95% of the time because I’m an overly protective dog owner.

The times I have let my dog off leash to run to his heart’s delight have not resulted in anything too bad happening minus the time he ate a dead rabbit and threw it up on the kitchen floor. Or the time my dog chased a deer into the woods and didn’t emerge from the forest for what seemed like hours. Or the time my dog got a tapeworm from eating who-knows-what.

Nevermind the coyotes that howl at night and sometimes during the day. They live close by and would love to have my dog for an evening snack. No thanks, I’ll keep him on a leash during our walks. I did, however, let him off-leash one time to see how he would do and he managed to get out of our front gate and run off down the road.

No amount of hollering his name and pleading for him to come back did any good. I went to get the car to track him down and he was sitting by the gate waiting for me. The little stinker nearly gave me a heart attack. Thank goodness my small dog wasn’t hit by a car or eaten by a coyote.

To be clear, I am not judging the people who let their dogs roam.

That is their business. I believe each dog owner has their own lifestyle and beliefs on how to train and raise a dog. Some dog parents are more lenient and others, like me, are more strict.

I do occasionally let my dog off his leash if I am outside with him and there are no guests coming to the house. He will chase the car as they leave and who knows where he’ll go. We go on long walks (with a leash of course) every day and he gets his exercise and can sniff whatever he wants under my close supervision. It works for both of us and he’s a happy dog.

Contributed by R. Cristine

September 14, 2020September 22, 2020 by Find a Paw

Bringing Home Another Cat

Our Cat Clementine

My son found her in the woods after a violent windstorm ripped through our neighborhood. She must have been terrified, huddled all alone in the foliage trying to seek safety.

The next morning my son brought her in the kitchen and held her up for me to see. “Isn’t she cute? I found her in the woods by Kroger. Can we keep her?”
I stood back and gasped.

What in the world is he trying to do to me? My husband would kill me if I brought another cat into the house. Oh yes she was cute alright. With those huge green eyes and what-am-I-doing-here dazed look on her face, I was immediately taken with her.

She looked to be about 4 months old

Her fur was long and mangy and I was certain she had fleas or some other disease that she could pass onto our cat Sam. And Sam wouldn’t take too kindly to having to share anything with another cat. She was the queen of the house and wouldn’t put up with being dethroned by a stray kitten from who knows where.

“She’s adorable, but your dad will freak out if he sees her and Sam won’t be too happy either. Hide her in your room. Let me figure out the best way to handle this.”

I knew it was a long shot

I wanted to convince my husband that we should keep her. She survived that horrible storm to be found by my son. What are the odds of that? I felt she was meant to be with us.

The next morning my son and I cautiously presented the kitten to him in the kitchen. We were both so eager to have him like her. “Please dad. Can we keep her? She needs a home. She’s so cute.”

My husband looked at her and shook his head. He threw up his hands in resignation. “No. We don’t need another cat. One’s enough. Find her another home.”

I figured that would be his reaction. I didn’t argue. I knew that would do no good. I would bide my time and wait for him to change his mind.

“Okay. Fair enough. We’ll find her another home.” My son balked at us. He was not happy.

I put my hand on his shoulder and sneaked him a quick wink. He knew what that meant. Mom was going to make sure the kitten stayed with us.

It’s been 12 years since that morning in the kitchen

It didn’t take long for my husband to become attached to Clementine. My son named her Clementine and it fits her perfectly. We took her to her first vet visit and she did not have fleas or any other disease. It was determined that she most likely is a Maine Coon.

Sam managed to tolerate her, but made it clear from day one that she is the boss. Clementine humbly accepted her place in the household. They both managed to have a cordial friendship. I believe Sam loved Clementine more than she let on.

Sam passed in 2013 at 16 years old and is surely missed by Clementine. We all miss her. Today Clementine is the big sister to our 3 year old beagle-mix Cam and she lets him know she is the queen of the house. He respects that.

Every morning my husband sings a sweet little song to Clementine and gives her a treat. He tells her how pretty she is and she just eats up the attention. They have a beautiful bond. I know he does not regret allowing her to stay with us 12 years ago.

Contributed by R. Cristine

September 9, 2020September 22, 2020 by Find a Paw

Pets? Work? Coronavirus?

The pandemic has created a lot of headaches since it arrived in full force back in March. Yet one of the major unintended benefits of us all spending more time at home is more quality time with our pets — music to our ears!

A recent survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Zoetis Petcare found that 70% of polled pet parents feel they know their animals better since the pandemic. On top of that, over 81% of respondents said the quarantine period made them feel closer to their pet than ever before.

The survey aimed to learn more about how new and seasoned pet owners are feeling and what their experiences have been like at home with their pets.

A little extra playtime

This doesn’t come as a major surprise given the current work/home climate. Humans and their pets will inevitably collide in some form or fashion during pandemic times. It’s good news it appears to be a mostly positive collision!

Pets are certainly loving their extra human time as this provides an extra opportunity to beg for a walk outside, game of tug of war, or snuggle on the couch. Can you blame them?

The cutest pesky friends

As someone who relies heavily on Zoom meetings these days, I can say it has added a bit of flare being able to meet my coworkers’ pets during our video calls.

It has also lead to more casual banter and allowed me to learn more about a person’s personality by how they interact with their pets. It’s interesting how soft a person can become swooning over their precious pet!

A recent example of how a pet can take over a Zoom meeting occurred in the UK between members of Parliament. The meeting inadvertently showcased one of the member’s cats as it waved its tail around in the video’s foreground. This brought about smiles and a few laughs to the rest of the members on the call.

Pets make our lives that much better

It is no secret that pets help us cope during stressful times. They bring a therapeutic sense to our homes and offer a great companionship to our lives. It’s one reason why pet adoptions are up dramatically and some pet shelters across the U.S. are even experiencing empty occupancy.

Working from home allows the ability for you and your new pet to gain rapport more quickly than if you are out of the home working in a more traditional manner. As studies have shown, the more time you spend with your pet the more he or she will trust you.

So, if nothing else, COVID-19 has allowed us the great opportunity to better understand our furry friends and to provide each other with comfort and love (and plenty of cuddles!) while we maneuver through these unprecedented times.

Contributed by Michael Thomssen

September 8, 2020September 22, 2020 by Find a Paw

How My Dog Rescued Me

I adopted my dog Cam in 2017.

He is a what they call a Doxle which is a Beagle/Dachshund mix. My son, who volunteered at a local dog shelter, had suggested that I consider adopting him.

I had wanted a dog for years and my son thought he would be great dog for me. My husband was not completely on board, but I knew I could convince him. I brought him home for a few days on a trial basis and that was it.

I knew he was meant to be a part of our family. My husband had dogs growing up and knew what a commitment and lifestyle change it was going to be. I was raised with cats and had no experience with dogs.

My idea of having a dog was a bit naive and romantic. I imagined that we would be best friends and he would come at my command, ride in the car with no problem, and never bark or chew things up. Ha! How wrong I was.

The day the adoption was final I realized there was no turning back.

I was completely committed to this precious pup. There was no way he was ever going to see the inside of a shelter again as he had a forever and loving home with my husband and me. I meant it too.

However, if I were to be completely honest, at first I regretted adopting Cam and considered re-homing him.

It was too much of an adjustment and commitment. I was blindsided by it.

Cam required constant attention as he was only 4 months old. He had to be house broken. He needed to go to obedience school. I had no idea what to do with a dog. My husband, bless his soul, was not going to be much help.

The agreement was I was in complete charge of taking care of Cam and all that went with it. I agreed. So I got to work learning all I could about dog behavior and how how to train him to be less hyper around strange people and other dogs.

He is the kind of dog that barks at other dogs so taking him to a dog park was a nightmare. Even going to PetSmart for obedience training was overwhelmingly stressful because he loathed it and would cause such a scene if he saw other dogs. I dreaded taking him anywhere.

I knew failure wasn’t an option so I decided that I was going to love and accept Cam as he is and relax and enjoy him. Barks and all.

It’s okay that he is reactive around other dogs and hates PetSmart. We no longer go to those places. He has tons of room to run around on our 100 plus acre property and I groom him myself.

I could no more give away Cam as I could one of my kids or grandkids! The truth is I loved him the first day I saw him and with my loving guidance he has turned into a mostly obedient and totally amazing dog. He even loves other dogs once he gets to sniff them! My husband also adores him. I think he is Cam’s favorite person. I’m his second favorite.

Rescuing Cam has been one of the most meaningful things I have done.

I gave a homeless dog a home. I became committed to something other than myself which made me less selfish. I became more compassionate and empathetic. I have had the privilege of sharing my life with the most devoted, loving, and spunky dog in the world who is also one of my best buddies. I would do it again in a minute and recommend others do the same!

Contributed by R. Cristine

September 2, 2020September 22, 2020 by Find a Paw

Do Dogs Really Love Their Owners?

Dogs: our best friends, companions, confidants, and everything in between.

There’s good reason for our unspoken connection to our furry friends, although many naysayers claim it’s mostly rooted in emotion and classical conditioning.

“Well of course your dog loves you. You’re the one who gives him food,” they say.

The problem with that logic is that it fails to acknowledge all the not-so-lovable characteristics dog owners (and humans in general) often have. Our beloved canines tend to turn a blind eye to our blatant and numerous shortcomings.

Who else would forgive you for being the slob you are when you drop your dinner crumbs on the floor for them to pick up? Who else could you trust to completely refrain from judgment when you spend an entire Saturday in bed binge watching the latest Netflix series instead of making good on your public Facebook commitment to attend a weekly yoga class?

Dogs. Anyone who has spent even a small amount of time with dogs knows that their love seems unconditional, but is there any hard data to back up that claim?

I mean, we already know our dogs love us regardless of what any literature might say, but for those of you that want some cold hard facts to legitimize your claim, this article is for you.

Their behavior says it all

They say sometimes the truth is often right in front of your eyes. That couldn’t be any more correct as it pertains to dogs loving their owners.

Studies have shown that dogs do indeed respond to voices and expressions unique to their favorite human. Simply put, your dog can interpret and empathize with the look on your face and the tone of your voice. You might observe true guilt when Fido notices the disappointed look on your face when you discover the destruction he inflicted on your favorite slippers.

And, as it turns out, that cute baby-talk voice we do with our pups can evoke certain positive canine behaviors and strengthen our bond. So next time your friends make fun of you for your enthusiastic and higher-pitched praise of your “goodest little puppy!”, tell them it’s scientifically backed, thank-you-very-much.

It’s all in the chemicals

It’s well known in the scientific community that human and animal brains work in a similar fashion when interpreting our environments.

Whether we are running from a potential predator or expressing love, our brains respond by producing certain chemicals. The chemical most associated with love and affection is called oxytocin. Oxytocin plays a huge role in social bonding in a variety of contexts — between parents and children, romantic partners, or, yes, dogs and their owners.

When examined under an MRI, dogs’ brains show increased levels of oxytocin as they gaze into their owners’ eyes. Not only do dogs get a rush of this love-infused chemical when they admire us, but we do as well when we look back at them. But you already knew that.

Love Stinks

Dogs rely on their sophisticated sense of smell to do more than find your freshly worn socks or a weak spot in the pantry’s armor. They also use it to relish in their love for you!

When a dog gets a whiff of his owner, the part of the brain associated with reward and pleasure lights up. Researchers have observed differences in canines’ caudate nuclei when sniffing their own favorite humans versus a stranger or another dog. Turns out a dog’s brain lights up the most when presented with his or her owner’s scent.

So… does my dog love me?

We will keep this simple. Yes! You probably didn’t have to scour the internet to know that, but sometimes it’s nice to reinforce the simple truths.

Humans and dogs have had a long history of bonding, and even though the research shows our furry friends love us back, there is probably a lot more to the story than an MRI can show. Let’s just assume your dog will love you just as much as you love him or her. We all know that amount is endless!

August 17, 2020September 22, 2020 by Find a Paw

The First 3 Things To Do When Your Pet Goes Missing

It is an unfortunate reality that from time to time our beloved pets go missing. One of the worst things about owning a pet is that, despite our unwavering loyalty to our fur babies, from time to time they go missing. Whether your dog likes to roam, or your cat in heat wanders too far, the tips for bringing them home are mostly the same. Fret not; here are 3 important tips that will help you find your lost pet.

Tip 1: Ask your neighbors to check areas you don’t have access to.

More often than not, a pet is simply hanging out in an area not too far from home. Ask your neighbors if they have seen your pet in their yard or anywhere else nearby. If they have not, ask them if they will check other off-limit areas for you. This could include their garage, tool shed, under their porch or any other area on their property you do not have access to. This is especially important during cooler winter months as your pet may be seeking warmth. Imagine that; your pet hanging out in a nice cozy spot while you run around like a lost puppy trying to find them! Be sure to contact local vets and animal shelters to see if anyone has turned your fur baby in. Leave your pet’s information and your contact information while you are there.

Tip 2: Coax your pet back home with treats, food, or toys.

Many people underestimate the effectiveness of simply squeaking your pet’s favorite toy or treat pouch. Dogs and cats can hear much better than humans and often follow sounds that are of interest to them. While tempting a dog or cat with the scent of their favorite food is a great way to get them back home, it is usually a longer process. If they do not respond to hearing familiar noises, place some food and treats in an easy to see spot. Be sure to keep an eye out so they don’t just eat the food and take off again!

Tip 3: Make a digital flyer and start spreading it on social media.

If one thing spreads like wildfire on social media it is posts involving pets. No seriously, the engagement rate is through the roof. Getting the news of your lost pet out on Facebook will help local neighbors become aware of the situation and increase the odds of bringing them home. Make a lost pet flyer and start posting to local lost and found pages in your area and sharing with friends and family. A little digital word of mouth goes a really long way in the 21st century.

Losing your pet may be a frightening experience but with a little patience and clear thinking, it is very likely you will get them home safe and sound. Hopefully these 3 tips will steer you towards your furry reunion!