09/04/2026
🚨 PUBLIC WARNING REGARDING ANIMAL DONATION FUNDRAISERS 🚨
This warning is directed both to the public donating money and to anyone creating fundraisers involving dogs or other animals.
Do not create a donation page for an animal you do not have in your possession while claiming that you are getting the animal or that it needs medical treatment. Do not use an animal’s photograph, condition, or story to collect money unless you are authorized and the information you provide is truthful and verifiable.
Knowingly collecting donations through false statements or misrepresentations may constitute fraud. It does not matter whether the money is collected through Facebook, GoFundMe, Cash App, PayPal, or another platform.
If someone donates because of false information, that person may contact law enforcement, file a report, provide documentation, and request that criminal charges be pursued. The appropriate authorities will determine whether charges are warranted.
Anyone donating should verify:
🐾 Who currently has possession of the animal
🐾 Whether the fundraiser organizer is authorized
🐾 Which veterinary clinic is providing treatment
🐾 Whether money can be paid directly to the clinic
🐾 How every donation will be used
Save screenshots, messages, receipts, payment records, names, dates, and fundraiser links if you believe you have been deceived.
To those creating fundraisers: be truthful, be transparent, and be prepared to account for every dollar collected. Using an animal and a false story to receive money from compassionate people is not rescue—it may be a crime.
Think before you donate. Tell the truth before you fundraise.
