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The
first place to look for a lost pet is at home-especially
if it is a cat. Cats often crawl into hiding places and
sometimes are too frightened to meow. |
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Check
with neighbors, the mail-man, any deliverymen and
neighborhood children. |
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Always
have a good description of the lost animal. A photo
would be most helpful. Let everyone know the pet's name
and if it's wearing a collar with identification tags. |
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Setup
a "comfort station" in a sheltered area on the
porch or in a garage. The area should have a blanket or
a bed of straw, and dishes of water and food. Should the
pet return home when the owner is not available, the
food and warmth could save its life. |
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Search
daily the places where the pet liked to run, such as
parks, playgrounds, beaches, etc. Lost animals usually
go where there are people. When searching frequently
call your pet by its name. |
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Make
up signs or posters giving a description of the pet, his
name, and if possible a photo. Be sure to include
your name, address, and phone numbers where you can be
reached 24 hours a day. Post the signs as many public
places as possible. |
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On
posters and in ads the words " Lost"
and "Reward"
(if one is offered) should be in bold letters. |
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Have
handbills similar to your posters made by one of your
area's copy services and pass them out door- to-door in
your neighborhood. This will give you a chance to
question neighbors. And don't forget to check with your
local merchants. |
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Call
all of the veterinarians in your area-especially your
own-and ask if they have treated a pet like yours. |
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Use
newspaper ads. Run them for at least a week. Never go
alone to a person's home who claims to have your animal. |
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Look
for cats at night. Take food with you and take a friend
with you too. Do not go out alone searching for your
lost pet. |
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Check
cars frequently. Before starting your own car, look
under the hood. Cats seek the warmth of car engines. |
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File
a missing pet report with the Niagara County SPCA and
check the shelter at least twice a weak in person. |
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Do
not give up after only a few days. Keep looking for at
least two months. Your pet may be lost, but the bond has
not been broken. |
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Dogs,
by law, must wear a license tag. But an additional
tag with the pet's name, home address, and phone number
placed on a dog or cat can save a lot of time and
trouble in locating a lost pet. These tags are
available at a number of local stores or through pet
food companies. |
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If
your pet is kept in a fenced yard, make sure the gates
close properly. If not, place spring hinges on those
gates so they will automatically close behind you. |
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Never
let your pet roam unattended. It only takes a few
seconds for someone to find your pet as loveable
as you do. |
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Walk
your dog around the neighborhood on a leash. This helps
the animal become familiar with his neighborhood and
increases its chances of finding its own way home if it
should run loose. |
