If you have found a lost pet, there are several steps you can take to help reunite them with their owner:
- Ensure the pet’s safety: If the animal is approachable and not in immediate danger, try to secure them in a safe and comfortable area. Provide food, water, and shelter if necessary.
- Check for identification: Look for any tags, collars, or identification on the pet. If they have identification, contact the owner immediately. This can be a phone number on a tag or a microchip that may require a visit to a veterinarian or animal shelter to scan.
- Notify local shelters and veterinarians: Contact your local animal shelters, rescue organizations, and veterinary clinics to report the found pet. They may have received reports of a missing pet matching the description and can help connect you with the owner.
- Spread the word: Utilize social media platforms, community forums, and local lost and found pet groups to post about the found pet. Include a description, clear photos, and contact information. This helps to reach a wider audience and increases the chances of finding the owner.
- Check local lost pet listings: Keep an eye on local lost pet listings in newspapers, online classifieds, and community bulletin boards. The owner might have already posted about their missing pet.
- Reach out to animal control and city shelters: Contact your local animal control agency and city shelters to report the found pet. They can assist in reuniting the animal with their owner or guide you on the appropriate steps to take.
- Take the pet to a veterinarian or shelter for scanning: If the pet does not have visible identification, take them to a local veterinarian or animal shelter to be scanned for a microchip. Microchips are tiny identification devices implanted under the pet’s skin, and they often contain the owner’s contact information.
Pets and People Humane Society deeply cares about the welfare of animals in need. Currently, we are unable to accept animals directly from the public due to our limited resources. However, our primary mission is to rescue animals from euthanasia lists across Oklahoma as resources and capacity allow.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to rehome a pet, we encourage you to reach out to your network of friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. Often, they can offer support and assistance in finding a new loving home for your pet.
We understand that making the decision to rehome a pet can be difficult, and we appreciate your understanding of our limitations. By working together as a community, we can help ensure that pets find the care and love they deserve. Thank you for your understanding and compassion for animals in need.