Animal shelter phone scam reported in Corning

Area residents are warned to be wary of phone calls they may get from a female identifying herself as an employee or volunteer from the Corning Animal Shelter or Second Chance Pet Rescue.

According to Debbie Eaglebarger, caretaker at the Corning Animal Shelter and founder of Second Chance Pet Rescue, a woman passing herself off as a representative from the shelter has been phoning people who have adopted former residents of the shelter. Using the ruse of making a follow-up phone call, the person discusses breeding possibilities.

Eaglebarger cautions that this person is not an employee of or affiliated with the Corning Animal Shelter or Second Chance Pet Rescue in any way. She also stresses that the shelter does not condone indiscriminate breeding and does not follow-up on dogs that have been in the shelter, unless discussed beforehand with the person.

Residents are urged to exercise caution if a person claiming to be from either the Corning Animal Shelter or Second Chance Pet Rescue calls to inquire about their dogs and possible breeding opportunities.

If you get a suspicious phone call you can call the shelter at 824-7054 or Second Chance at 824-1985. You can also call the Corning Police Department at 824-7000 to file a report.