Yes, I contact Airbnb every time at 844-234-2500 and asked them to help verify the inquiry. They usually ask me to ask questions to find out more about the guest. If the guest does not reply with a satisfactory reponses, Airbnb will check it out. Every single time the conversation between the guest and I suddenly closes and the guest account is deleted.
Regarding pets, I would be as descriptive as possible of what kind, size and weight you accept with dogs, if you allow cats indoor only, and if they do not give an answer honestly then you will not be able to accept there pets. If they show up with an animal outside of the scope of your description there will be a fine of $250.
Also, you can call Airbnb CS and tell them you do not feel comfortable accepting someone that does not respond to your questions about their pet every time it happens. They will work with you and not penalize you.
I have had to call Airbnb CS several times and now they only give me verified guests!! So the squeaky wheel gets the oil.