Other Resources for Finding a Lost Pet

If your cat or dog is lost, visit PAWS’ shelter and other animal shelters and do it often. Looking in person is the best way to ensure that you and your pet are reunited. Continue your search by taking these steps:

Post signs

Make signs bold, with key words in large type. A photo of the animal is a big help. Distribute them door-to-door in the neighborhood where the animal was lost and post them at major intersections and along main streets in the area. PAWS and many other shelters have "lost and found" stations within their facilities where you can also post your signs.

Download a ready-made lost sign (PDF 135kb)

Cover the neighborhood and beyond

• Call local veterinary clinics including those that handle emergencies.
• If your pet is microchipped, call the microchip company to report her missing and to be sure your contact information is up to date.
• Let everyone in your neighborhood know you pet is missing. Talk to passers-by and stop in at businesses in your area.
• Check the neighborhood including alleys, playgrounds, parks, and roadside ditches. Cats can often become stranded in trees or shut in garages, storage sheds, under porches, or on rooftops.
• Enlist the help of letter carriers and delivery persons, as well. It is not uncommon for animals to be found miles from where they were lost.

Try a humane trap

If you lost a small dog or cat, try using a humane trap to safely capture your pet. You can rent a humane trap from PAWS.

Use the Internet

Several websites provide information for lost and found companion animals:

Petfinder

Craigslist

Pets 911

Lost and Pound

Missing Pet Partnership

Place an ad

Immediately place an ad in the major daily newspaper for your area. Continue to monitor the ads in case someone lists one for a found animal who matches the description of your pet.

Offer a reward

Offering a reward on your posters and in ads may offer an incentive for people to become involved. Be cautious before giving money to anyone claiming to know the whereabouts of your animal--make sure the person claiming to have your animal really does.

Be thorough

By using all available approaches, you can increase the odds of a happy reunion. Many animals are found weeks after they were lost. Don't give up.