🛑 WARNING! How to Spot a Pet recovery scam – And How to Protect Yourself!

Codi Dittrich
Jul 7
3 min read

When your beloved pet goes missing, your emotions are already running high. Unfortunately, this is when pet owners are most vulnerable — making a pet recovery scam warning more important than ever. That’s why the rise of fake drone pet recovery “services” has become a dangerous and heartbreaking trend across the country.

At SkyView Drone Services, we’ve seen firsthand how these scammers operate. One of our recent clients was scammed by someone posing as a pet recovery expert — wasting precious time and money while their pet was still lost. It’s time to raise awareness and help others recognize the signs of a pet recovery scam warning before it’s too late.

Drone pet recovery scam warning with controller, cash, and phone alert about fraudulent services. — Scam Alert: Fake drone pet recovery services often demand upfront payments without proof of service—know the signs and protect your pet.

🚨 Red Flags: Pet recovery scam warning, How to spot a scammer.

Demands Payment Upfront Before Meeting You
Legitimate drone teams will never ask for payment before showing up or providing any kind of service. If someone demands full payment before even seeing the location or asking basic questions, run.
No Proof of Equipment or Results
Ask for photos of their actual drones, success stories, or videos of past recoveries. Scammers will dodge these requests or send vague, unrelated images.
No Website or Verifiable Reviews
If they’re only using Facebook Messenger, cash apps, or untraceable platforms — that’s a major red flag. Reputable services like SkyViewDroneMN.com have full websites, verified contact info, and real reviews.
No Physical Presence or Refuses to Meet
A true drone team will coordinate a search in person or via phone immediately. If they avoid meeting you or say they’ll start “later,” be skeptical.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Promises
No one can guarantee 100% recovery. If someone promises “we’ll definitely find your pet in 5 minutes” for a flat fee — they’re probably not real.

✅ How to Protect Yourself

Ask Questions: Where are they based? What drone do they use? What success have they had?
Request to See Their Drone: A legitimate business will gladly show off their tech.
Get References or Reviews: Ask if they have any local people they’ve worked with before.
Never Send Full Payment Before the Job Starts: Reputable services charge after providing real help — or at least after meeting in person.
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is.