What to do if your pet is missing… don’t give up hope!
#BonnieHays
In our March column, we discussed things you can do ahead of time to increase the chances of a reunion if you and your pet are ever separated. These tips included making sure your furry friend is wearing a collar with an easy-to-read ID tag, licensing your dog, and talking to your veterinarian about microchipping.
But a lost pet can still happen to anyone!
If your pet ever goes missing, do the following:
- Check with Animal Services or your local shelter to see if your pet has been brought to their facility and file a lost report with them. In Washington County, visit www.WashingtonCountyPets.com to see stray animals currently at our shelter, to file a lost report online and for more lost pet resources.
- Check social media and other online resources for reports of found pets in your area and to share that you are looking for your lost animal. Sites to check out include Nextdoor, Pawboost, Craigslist’s lost and found section, and Facebook groups focused on lost/found pets.
- Alert neighbors that your pet is missing – maybe they have seen them! Post signs, distribute fliers, check with local vet clinics, and ask neighbors if you can look for your pet on their property or ask them to check spots animals may hide, such as garages and sheds.
- If your pet has a microchip, check that the chip is registered, and the contact information associated with it is up to date.
Don’t give up hope if you can’t find your lost pet immediately. Scared animals often hide, and it may take some time to find them.
For more information, please visit www.WashingtonCountyPets.com.
The Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter is located at 1901 SE 24th Ave, Hillsboro. If you have a question for the animal shelter, email Stacy_Beckley@washingtoncountyor.gov
