Do you know what to do if your pooch or kitty accidentally gets lost or wanders away from home? The following tips will help you and your family find your pet.
ID Your Pets. It is a good idea for all of your fuzzy friends—even indoor pets—to always wear a collar with an ID tag. The ID tag should have your name or your parents' name, and telephone number or address.
Hide and Seek. As soon as you notice that your animal friend is missing, tell an adult. Make sure to search your home carefully—under beds, in closets, dark places, small places, behind bulky furniture—in case your pet might be hiding or sleeping somewhere.
Call for Help. Have an adult contact your local shelter, humane society, animal control agency or SPCA. If there are no shelters close to your home, contact the police. It is very important that your pet is described accurately. It will definitely be helpful if you have current photos of your pet.
Close to Home. With an adult helping you, walk or ride around your neighborhood. Ask your neighbors, and friends if they have seen your pet. Be sure to bring along a picture to show them.
News Flash! You and your family should post signs and handout flyers in your community. If you ask permission, you may also be able to post signs in your vet's office, grocery store and other local places. Include the name of your pet, and a recent picture, and write if your pet is a male or female, age, color, breed, weight and any special markings. Make sure to include a number where your family can be reached if someone finds your pet.
Don't Give Up. Many animals have found their way back home.