Merritt animal rescue group issues warning about imposters
A well established animal rescue society in Merritt is sounding the alarm after getting reports that a woman in Kelowna is taking in dogs while using its name.
Judanna Caros is the founder of Angel’s Animal Rescue Society, which has been operating out of Merritt since 2008.
“We have been contacted by other rescue organizations recently telling us someone in Kelowna is taking in dogs and saying they are with Angel’s,” Caros said.
The rescue society does take in dogs and adopt them out in Kelowna but doesn't have a dedicated representative in the area.
She's warning the public to be careful with their pets.
“Anyone working with our organization would be professional and kind in conduct, would be in contact before exchanging a dog and would be able to provide proof they are part of our organization,” Caros said.
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She doesn’t know much about the person who's using her organization’s name.
“We know her name is Shannon or Sharon,” she said. "I don’t think she's stealing dogs, it sounds like she's finding dogs advertised for free and taking them in under our name to make people feel more comfortable giving her their dogs.”
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It isn’t the first time this kind of activity has happened to the rescue organization and Caros said it can be damaging, putting the registered charity at risk of losing respect, donations and support.
“I think it happens a lot, just this incident is being brought to our attention,” she said. “We want people to know we are a very professional organization and we present ourselves in that manner every time we are at someone’s door. We act with kindness and willingness to assist no matter what the situation is. We don’t know how this woman is approaching people.”
The police are aware of the situation but can’t do anything without more information, she said.
Caros is asking for anyone with information to send an email to Angel’s Animal Rescue.
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