In the aftermath of the 8 News Now Investigators’ probe into missing pet remains, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) issues a stern caution to consumers against utilizing Venmo or Zelle for service payments. This advisory comes in light of disturbing revelations surrounding the mishandling of pets‘ remains by a now-defunct business in the Las Vegas area.
According to the investigative report released by 8 News Now, numerous pets from the Las Vegas vicinity, intended for cremation, were discovered dumped in rural Utah, over 100 miles away. The Nevada Attorney General’s Office has initiated an investigation into the operations of the shuttered business, 1st Call Pet Cremation, as reported by the 8 News Now Investigators on Monday.
In previous coverage last fall, 8 News Now Investigators interviewed several individuals who entrusted 1st Call Pet Cremation with the remains of their beloved dogs. These individuals expressed doubts about the authenticity of the remains provided to them. As of the latest developments, businesses contracted with 1st Call Pet Cremation have been instructed to retain all assets, including pets stored in freezers, pending the ongoing state-led inquiry.
Records indicate that 1st Call Pet Cremation ceased operations on October 31, 2023. The company had engaged Angel Hutchings, proprietor of Forever Friends Pet Cremation located outside St. George, Utah, to handle cremation services for some animals. Hutchings disclosed that she cremated over 1,300 pounds of pet remains recovered from various dump sites in Utah and a Las Vegas freezer, a fact corroborated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Furthermore, investigations revealed discrepancies in the company’s representation. While 1st Call Pet Cremation’s website, since removed, purported BBB accreditation, the BBB profile reflected an F rating and a disclaimer stating, “This business is not BBB accredited.”
A spokesperson for BBB’s Mountain West region affirmed the organization’s commitment to pursuing businesses engaged in consumer deception. Complaints regarding 1st Call Pet Cremation began surfacing in June 2023, with a notable surge starting in August of the same year. Over the past three years, BBB has received a total of 20 complaints, 19 of which were lodged within the past year alone.
BBB’s recent online statement underscores ongoing consumer concerns regarding the authenticity of received remains and the lack of responsiveness from the company. Notably, numerous complaints cite communication breakdowns, with consumers unable to reach company representatives for extended periods.
Melani Fox, director of marketing and communications for BBB Mountain West, emphasized the importance of payment security, advising consumers to opt for credit or debit card transactions to avail themselves of bank protection.
Despite assurances of providing a statement to 8 News Now Investigators, a representative from 1st Call Pet Cremation failed to furnish a response to repeated requests for comment.
