Lost Pet Reports -
what you need to know
When you visit a shelter looking for a lost pet, you should
be asked to fill out a lost pet report. If not, ask to fill one
out. In order for a shelter to match a lost report and a missing
pet, they need specific information. Following is a list of info
you should provide, as well as any other information they request. Note: Cats are very difficult to match
without a color photograph. It's tricky even with one, but definitely
include a color photograph.
Most shelters will have separate forms for dogs and cats, but
if not, be sure to identify.
Species is the kind of
animal, ie. Dog, Cat, Rabbit, etc
Breed is the type within
the species, ie. Your lost Dog is a Golden Retriever, Siberian
Husky, Poodle, etc. Before you fill out a lost report, check a
library or bookstore to identify the specific breed. Don't use
invalid information on your lost report.
ID tags and information, such
as description of collar, license number, Microchip number and
manufacturer, etc.
What sex and spayed/neutered
Age is helpful if you know
what it is, but if you don't know, don't guess.
Color and markings
are very important. Make a detailed list of any special physical
characteristics you pet has. This, combined with a color photo
will help the staff and volunteers make an ID of your pet. Pay
particular attention to oddities, ie. extra toes; one green eye,
one blue, black spot on front left leg, etc.
Coat length and texture will
narrow the field for possible candidates, but be sure you are
speaking their language. People who work with animals attribute
specific meaning to long, medium or short hair. No one can agree
on what medium hair length is. Use either long or short.
Eye Color is important, but
check a book if you are uncertain.
Weight is tricky. Many people
don't have any idea what their pet weighs. And some people are
way off even when they think they know. Also, if your pet has
been missing for very long, their weight could have changed. If
you don't know (recently weighed by a vet), don't guess.
When was your pet last seen
and where. This should be a specific date and a physical address
so pets found prior to the date yours was lost can be ruled out,
and the address can be referenced on a map for possible matches.
Your name and phone number,
and any other phone numbers they can contact if you are not available.
Veterinarian Info The name of your veterinarian and phone number
may be helpful especially if your pet is found and needs medical
attention.
Your home address
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A Lost Pet
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