What to Do Immediately
Put up fliers with your phone numbers (including your cell) and his photo!
Start searching. The sooner you start the better.
Call your friends for help. Guide them on the best approach by considering what your pet likes. Speak and talk softly if he is scared. If he or she is afraid of men, recruit your women friends. If he is driven by food – have lots of smelly treats.
Call animal control and see if they will help or have suggestions!
Who to Call
Animal Control (sometimes called the "dog catcher" or dog warden) – they may be willing to come out and help you catch your pet, loan you their "tools" such as nets, cages, etc or give you advice.
Call your vet's office and local emergency clinic and any local vets. Fax them the photo and lost form and ask them to place it on their bulletin board.
Call and fax the local humane society, animal shelter, and animal control societies. Fax them the photo and your number as well.
Call your microchip company and let them know your pet is lost. Confirm they have all your most current phone numbers including your cell phone number incase he is found.
Important Tips to Prevent a Dog from Getting Away
I don't recommend any type of slip or choke collar for rescue dogs that have any type of fear. Carefully check the collar to determine if it is too loose. It it can slip over the head, then it is too loose! Fit your dog with a secure collar such as a halter or a gentle leader, not a collar that can slip off the neck.
Do not use the collar with tags to attach the lead. That way a dog can't slip out of it easily if going for a walk and it will still have his tags/ID on it
Make sure all pets have both tags and microchips! Tags are helpful so people can find you or call you immediately if they find your pet. However, if he loses his collar – it is important that he have a microchip. If he does not have a collar and is caught or injured and taken to the hospital, the microchip data can help the hospital or dog pound find you!
Make sure you register your microchip ID so they have your accurate phone numbers (including cell phone).
Keep current photos of your pet!
