Sadly there are people who have figured out a way to take advantage of those who are missing pets. The screen shots here are a real world example of a common method being used. (continue reading below the screen shots for more information)
Grey bubbles - scammers
Green bubbles - pet owner
You receive a text message saying that they've found your pet. They immediately begin a dialog that seems like they are trying to verify you are truly the owner of the pet they supposedly have in their possession.
GIVE THEM NOTHING - ask for a photo!
They will continue to try to make you feel as if you need to prove you are the owner.
Eventually the scammer exposes what they are really up to! The 6 digit verify code is actually a "google 6 digit code".
DO NOT SEND ANY CODES TO THEM ! Try searching the internet for "Google 6 digit code scam".
While this example doesn't have any money being sent, obtaining your code has much more value to these scammers.
JUST REMEMBER -
SEND NOTHING
ASK FOR A PHOTO