Pet owners across Townsville are being warned to avoid an international pet scam run by a group called Petchip.
The scam preys on pet owners by sending fraudulent emails asking for payment for "microchip registration expiration". The emails include a threat that pets will be listed as "unregistered" if a fee is not paid.
Emails from Petchip are not issued by or in conjunction with Council.
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said Townsville residents needed to remain vigilant when receiving unexpected emails or phone calls demanding payments.
"This international scam has been targeting pet owners across Australia, the US and the UK," Cr Greaney said.
"Pet microchips do not expire and do not need to be re-registered for a fee.
"Scams are growing increasingly sophisticated which can make it hard to decipher between what is legitimate and what is fraudulent. If you receive a phone call or email from someone claiming to represent Townsville City Council, you can call Council on 13 48 10 and verify with our team.
"Thanks to a member of our community who called to verify whether Council was connected to the Petchip emails, we have been able to share this warning with other members of the community who have been targeted."
Council issues dog registration and cat approval reminders by mail annually, with renewals due by 31 August each year.
To renew a dog or cat registration online you must have received a renewal notice from Townsville City Council, which includes the Townsville City Council logo, phone number and email address.
Council will never ask for payment for dog registration or cat approval via PayPal.
