COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Columbus Humane is sounding the alarm about a scam that is affecting people who use their services.

The organization posted a message to Facebook on Monday warning of fraudulent calls circulating in the area over the weekend. Staff member Brittany Williams said scammers are impersonating workers and claiming they have someone’s missing pet.

“There are people in the community who are calling and impersonating Columbus Humane and potentially any other vet practice,” Williams said.

The scammers are requesting fees as high as $3,500 in return for their animal. Williams notes one victim paid more than $500, thinking they would get their cat back. She said after five years of working for Columbus Humane, something like this has never happened.

“This has not happened in my time here,” Williams said. “It’s really sad because we get calls every day from people who are missing their dogs and their cats, and they’re devastated. I would pay any sum of money to get my pets back and I think those scammers know that and they’re preying on our vulnerability.”

Williams also explained that Columbus Humane would never ask for money over the phone or in return for a pet and if you do receive a call hang up immediately. If you are unsure if the call is a scam, you can also call Columbus Humane at 614-777-7387.