Hamilton Animal Services are warning residents to stay alert after receiving reports of a suspected Animal Control impostor targeting neighbourhoods and homes.

Whoever was in the vehicle was trying to take dogs from yards. - Ann Lamanes, city spokesperson

On Thursday, the city's animal services staff stated on a Facebook page that residents had reported witnessing an alleged Animal Control vehicle and interacting with an officer removing pets from homes due to alleged by-law violations, such as barking dogs or leash laws.

When city animal control staff respond to complaints, they arrive in clearly marked vehicles, carrying photo ID and official badges. They won't take an animal for a bylaw violation, city staff say. They give education and a warning.

'This is definitely not anyone from the city'

The post included a photograph of the vehicle taken by a resident who encountered the individual.

Ann Lamanes, a city spokesperson, said the city heard about the situation on Thursday.

"The vehicle was reportedly circulating the city and in Stoney Creek, Port Dover, Norfolk County and even as far as Toronto," she said. "Whoever was in the vehicle was trying to take dogs from yards."

"This is definitely not anyone from the city," she said. "An officer would have photo ID and badges, and would have clear labels from the City of Hamilton on their vehicle."

Anyone who spots the vehicle or notices similar incidents is being asked to record the license plate number and contact Hamilton Police.