JOHOR BARU: Desperate dog owners seeking blood transfusions to save their sick pets have fallen victim to scammers posing as animal blood donors here.
Johor MCA Youth Public Services and Complaints Bureau chief Henry Mok (pic) said the issue came to light recently following several cases in which pet owners were cheated by individuals claiming they could provide blood for dogs requiring transfusions.
“In a recent case, a desperate dog owner, after discovering that her pet urgently needed a blood transfusion, sought help online and was contacted by a woman claiming she could arrange a donor dog.
“The woman appeared familiar with the process and told the owner she could arrange the blood supply upon payment of RM130 for transport and service fees,” he said.
The owner, anxious about her dog’s condition, transferred the money to the woman, who later became unreachable despite repeated attempts to contact her.
Mok said he is aware of at least three such cases in Johor Baru and believes there could be more victims who have yet to come forward.
“It is not just about the money lost. Most victims were cheated out of only a few hundred ringgit, but the more important issue is the lives of their beloved pets.
“Dog owners are seeking help because their pets need urgent treatment and, when they are desperate, they become more vulnerable to such scams,” he said.
Mok said the scams were particularly concerning as they could undermine the goodwill of pet owners who voluntarily allow their dogs to donate blood to help others.
Based on feedback from veterinarians he had spoken to, Mok said animal blood transfusions generally do not involve fixed charges or fees.
“Pet owners usually help others out of charity and goodwill.
“It is up to the recipient pet owner to offer a token of appreciation if they wish to do so,” he added.
Mok advised pet owners to be cautious, particularly if an alleged donor requests payment upfront.
He urged other victims and anyone with information to come forward so the bureau could assist them in lodging police reports.
Those affected can contact the Johor MCA liaison committee office at 07-363 0008 or via WhatsApp at 011-6251 5678.
