By Dickson Bandera
The Harare Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has issued a public warning over a growing wave of fraudulent veterinary services being offered by individuals falsely posing as SPCA employees.
In an urgent statement released this week, SPCA Harare management revealed that certain individuals have been impersonating staff members and offering unauthorized services such as home visits, vaccinations, treatments, and even surgical procedures on animals. The organization has condemned these acts as illegal and dangerous.
“We want to make it clear that these unauthorized activities are illegal and endanger the welfare of animals and the public,” read the statement.
According to SPCA, all official veterinary services are strictly provided within the organization’s designated facility. Any individual offering such services outside the premises is not affiliated with the SPCA and should be treated as a fraudster.
The statement further warns that these impostors are circulating fake rabies certificates and vaccination records, and the drugs and vaccines they use may be stolen, expired, or illegally sourced.
“Fake vaccines will not protect you, your family, or your community from diseases such as Rabies,” the SPCA warned.
Beyond the health risk, the SPCA emphasized that administering dangerous drugs or performing surgical procedures without proper training or certification is a criminal offense under Zimbabwean law.
Animal owners are urged to be vigilant and to report any suspicious individuals claiming to represent the SPCA to the organization directly at 07 122 11 900 or to their nearest police station.
“By taking action and reporting suspicious and fraudulent activity, we can work together to safeguard the welfare and well-being of our animals and protect our communities,” the organization said.
The warning comes at a time when pet ownership is increasing across Harare and veterinary services are in higher demand—making the public more vulnerable to exploitation.
The Harare SPCA continues to operate as a trusted institution in animal welfare, offering legitimate veterinary care, adoptions, and rescue services. Members of the public are encouraged to seek services directly from its official facility and to verify credentials before engaging any veterinary provider.
