Lost Pet Info

GUIDELINES TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR LOST PET:

· Be persistent!! Often times, well meaning people will keep a lost pet at their house for an extended period before turning the dog or cat into the animal shelter

· Call the Lost Cat & Dog Line at 781-4407 every day. The recording gives a complete list with descriptions of all the animals picked up and brought into the shelter during the preceding 24-hour period. Call each day after 6:00 p.m., for the most recent recording.

· Come to the animal shelter. Only you can positively identify your pet. As much as we would like to help you, we cannot identify your animal over the phone.

· Check the Animal Services website photos of animals in the shelter at Animals in Shelter.

· Check the shelter at least every 72 hours. Unlicensed, stray dogs and cats are only required to be held for five days before they can be adopted or euthanized.

· Send in a notice to your local newspaper or radio station. ARF volunteers can give current information to participating stations and papers.

· Make up fliers with your pet’s description (include a picture if possible). List sex, color, tags, collars or distinguishing characteristics, the area lost, and your information for someone to contact you. Post the notices on supermarket bulletin boards, Animal Service’s Lost and Found Board, with other humane organizations, schools, and nearby neighbors.

· If you have recently moved, leave notices with neighbors in both your old and new neighborhoods, and check with agencies in that area.

· If you have lost a purebred dog, check with the ARF volunteers for current Breed Rescue Clubs.

· Make sure that all current and correct information is on file for your dog’s license and rabies tags. If your animal has been micro chipped, make sure the company has your current information.

· Check your neighborhood frequently on foot. Be sure to check at night. If your pet is in an area it is not familiar with, it will only come out when it is quiet.