Protocols for Finding a Lost Pet

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Protocols for Finding a Lost Pet

Whether your pet managed to get out the front door, the yard fence was open, or whatever the reason, a runaway pet can soon become a lost pet. Where do you start? What do you do? Who do you call? Here is what you can do to hopefully bring your pet safe and sound.

At Home

  • Before you start combing the neighborhood, check the rooms of your home, underneath furniture or tables closets, garage, yard, or any outside buildings on your property.
  • Make sure you close off any of the rooms to prevent them from moving from room to room.
  • Do NOT leave food out or outside the home.
    • You can leave water, but avoid putting food out as your pet has less of a reason to come to you.

Have Photos and Information Ready

  • Having as many multiple angles and current photos of your pet, particularly if your pet has any unique markings or traits.
  • Where Pet was lost, last seen and/or what direction it ran off too.
    • Update this Information with any leads and sightings.
  • Consider offering a Cash Reward.
  • Use this Pet Identification Flier, it can be used on Social Media or as a paper Flier:
Pet Identification FlierDownload

Who to Inform and Where to Share Fliers

  • Animal Services
    • Orange County Animal Services: (407) 836-3111 or 311
  • Community Boards
  • Local Businesses and Dog Parks
  • Social Media
    • In this day and age chances are VERY good that your Community has or is on:
      • Facebook Group or Page
        • You can post the information on fliers and Social Media.
        • Make sure on Social Media that your post is “SHARAEABLE”
          • Find the post you want to make shareable.
          • Click on the three-dot icon in the top-right corner.
          • Select “Edit audience.”
          • Choose whether you want the public, friends, specific friends or a custom list of friends to view and share your post.
      • Nextdoor
        • Nextdoor also allows you to have access to communities and neighborhoods that surround yours.
  • Your Neighbors/Subdivision/HOA
    • You Can post Fliers at the Entry Points of the Neighborhood and Parks.
      • If possible print the poster on colorful paper or brightly colored fonts.
      • Wrap or cover your posters in aplastic so they don’t disintegrate and fall to the ground if they become wet.
  • Your Personal Veterinarian and Local Veterinarians Nearby
  • Non-Emergency Services
    • Police Department
      • Orange County: (407)-254-700
      • Winter Garden: (407)-656-3636
      • Windermere: (407) 905-6333

Additional Websites and Facebook Pages

Visit the Shelters and Check-In with Rescue groups

File a lost pet report with every shelter within a 60-mile radius of your home and visit the nearest shelters daily, if possible.

Orange County Animal Services
2769 Conroy Rd, Orlando, FL 32839
http://www.ocnetpets.com/

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About the Author:

Savanna Westwood

Savanna Westwood is the Owner and Founder of The Savvy Sitter, Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, LLC. She has grown up with animals all her life and enjoys spending time with them. Savanna has lived in the Winter Garden and Windermere Area for over 30 years. When she is not taking care of Fur Friends, one can find her reading, practicing archery, riding, and devising ways to provide additional and excellent services to clients.  Savanna is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter with Pet Sitter International's CPPS certification and also holds certification in Pet First Aid and CPCR for Pet-Care Professionals.

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