Animal charity warning over microchip scam email

An animal welfare charity in Guernsey is warning pet owners of a scam aimed at owners with microchipped pets.

It follows reports of a "scam email circulating, claiming to be from a pet microchip network", said the GSPCA (Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).

The charity said the email asked recipients to verify microchip details of their pets and their own details.

Sharna Leaman, from the charity based in St Andrew, said: "Always know which microchip company your pet is registered with. Only visit their official website to manage your pet's details."

Microchips are small identification devices with a unique identification number that links an animal to its owner and can help reunite them.

GSPCA's manager Steve Byrne said: "It is horrendous to hear of scams like this microchip false company trying to extort money and details out of pet owners."

He said: "Microchipping is an incredible way to identify pets and reunite them when lost with pet owners and there are many fantastic microchip companies that support pet owners but it is extremely important you only communicate with the company you are registered with."

He urged people to contact their vets or the charity if they were unsure.

Every cat, dog, rabbit and ferret rehomed by the charity is microchipped before it is rehomed.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].