Jacksonville, Florida, January 2, 2026
The Jacksonville Humane Society has alerted pet owners about two scams exploiting their name. The first involves claims of found missing pets requiring payment for treatment, while the second includes fraudulent websites posing as cat rescue groups requesting deposits for nonexistent kittens. JHS emphasizes that they will never demand payment over the phone or online, advising individuals to visit the facility directly for adoption or inquiries.
Jacksonville Humane Society Warns of Scams Targeting Pet Owners
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Humane Society (JHS) has issued a warning about two scams exploiting their name to deceive pet owners and potential adopters.
Scam Targeting Missing Pet Owners
In the first scam, individuals monitor social media for posts about lost pets, particularly those listing a phone number. The scammer contacts the pet owner, claiming the missing pet was found injured and taken to JHS for treatment. They demand online payment for veterinary services before the pet can be released. JHS emphasizes that the organization would never call an owner to demand payment, especially during such a challenging time. Pet owners are advised to visit the facility directly if they believe their pet is there. Additionally, JHS recommends using the Petco Love Lost program, which utilizes facial recognition to help locate missing pets.
Scam Targeting Prospective Cat Adopters
The second scam involves fraudulent websites posing as cat rescue groups, often created using artificial intelligence to appear legitimate. Scammers advertise kittens for adoption, requesting advance deposits. Victims are then directed to JHS to pick up the kitten, only to find no such animal exists. JHS has clarified that they would never ask for payment over the phone or in advance. Prospective adopters are encouraged to visit JHS in person to meet animals available for adoption.
Protective Measures and Resources
To protect themselves, pet owners should be cautious when sharing personal information online and avoid posting details that could be exploited by scammers. Microchipping pets is also recommended to aid in reunification if they go missing. For those seeking to adopt or foster, visiting JHS directly is advised to ensure the legitimacy of the adoption process.
About the Jacksonville Humane Society
The Jacksonville Humane Society is dedicated to providing care, comfort, and compassion to animals in need while engaging the community to end the killing of abandoned and orphaned shelter animals. They offer various services, including adoption, fostering, and community education programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the two scams involving the Jacksonville Humane Society?
The first scam targets owners of missing pets, with scammers claiming the pet was found injured and demanding payment for treatment. The second scam involves fraudulent websites posing as cat rescue groups, requesting advance deposits for kittens that do not exist.
How can pet owners protect themselves from these scams?
Pet owners should be cautious when sharing personal information online, avoid posting details that could be exploited by scammers, and consider microchipping their pets. For adoption, visiting the Jacksonville Humane Society directly is recommended to ensure the legitimacy of the process.
What should I do if I believe my missing pet is at the Jacksonville Humane Society?
If you believe your missing pet is at JHS, visit the facility directly. JHS would never call an owner to demand payment, especially during such a challenging time.
How can I adopt or foster a pet from the Jacksonville Humane Society?
Prospective adopters and foster parents are encouraged to visit JHS in person to meet animals available for adoption. JHS would never ask for payment over the phone or in advance.
What services does the Jacksonville Humane Society offer?
JHS provides various services, including adoption, fostering, and community education programs, all aimed at ending the killing of abandoned and orphaned shelter animals.
Key Features of the Jacksonville Humane Society
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mission | Provide care, comfort, and compassion to animals in need while engaging the community to end the killing of abandoned and orphaned shelter animals. |
| Services | Adoption, fostering, and community education programs. |
| Protection Against Scams | Never calls owners to demand payment, especially during challenging times. |
| Adoption Process | Encourages prospective adopters to visit JHS in person to meet animals available for adoption. |
| Pet Identification | Recommends microchipping pets to aid in reunification if they go missing. |
Now Happening on X
- @1032shotsfired (December 30, 2025, 3:49 PM) JSO officer involved in fatal shooting of a man in the Oceanway neighborhood during an arrest that turned physical. View on X
- @corrow76651 (December 28, 2025, 5:09 PM) Reports of four people injured in a shooting at an apartment complex in Jacksonville on Christmas Eve. View on X
- @FHP_Notifier (January 1, 2026, 8:53 AM) A fatality reported in a crash on Southside Blvd near Anders Blvd, with northbound lanes blocked. View on X
- @FHP_Notifier (December 31, 2025, 5:22 AM) Silver Alert issued for an endangered adult last seen near N Jefferson St and W 1st Street in Jacksonville. View on X
- @FHP_Notifier (December 27, 2025, 1:56 PM) Silver Alert for an endangered adult near N Jefferson St and W 1st Street in Jacksonville, highlighting ongoing public safety concerns. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud Charges
Georgia Woman Arrested for $17,000 Bitcoin Fraud in Florida
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
