At BJC, we often have frantic pet owners call or come in our facility to locate their beloved pets who have strayed from home. A traumatic experience for the owner and pet alike, we encourage the following when these unfortunate instances arise:

• Contact BJC and other local animal control shelters - If you have lost your pet, you should file a lost pet report with every shelter within 60 miles of your home.
• Search your neighborhood thoroughly - Walk or drive through your neighborhood regularly – morning and evening are the best time to look for lost animals. Ask those in your neighborhood (neighbors, letter carriers, delivery people) if they’ve seen your pet.
• Advertise – Hand out photos and written descriptions of your pet to your neighbors. Post signs of your lost pet at grocery stores, community centers, veterinary offices, traffic intersections and other public places. If money allows, take out an ad in your local newspaper.
• Leave a “scent” trail – Place items with familiar home scents outside your home to help guide your lost pet back. A litter box, pet bed or even an article of clothing you’ve recently worn can attract a disoriented pet.

Remember, your pets have a better chance of being returned quickly and safely if they always wear a collar and ID tag with current information. Please ask us at BJC or your own veterinarian about permanent methods of identification, such as microchipping. Do your part in protecting your pet in case emergencies arise.