At For Kitty’s Sake, we call cats that try to escape out of our adoption center “Door Darters”. We’ll post signs and inform potential adopters that their cat has a higher chance of getting out and take necessary precautions so that doesn’t happen.
However, if you’ve lost your pet, it may not be because they wanted to go out and explore. They may have been spooked by a construction worker while you were getting your bathroom remodeled. Regardless of how you’ve lost your pet, you’ll want to get them home safely as soon as you can.
If your pet does become lost, don’t delay. Take the following steps to help bring your companion home to safety.
- Act fast! The sooner you begin your search, the better the odds of finding him.
- Search your neighborhood or the area where your pet was lost and let people know she’s missing.
- Leave their litterbox outside so their own scent can attract them back to you.
- Call your pet’s name and check any places she could have become trapped, such as in basements or garages, or under vehicles. A lost pet often will hide during the day, so be sure to go out again at night with a flashlight.
- Sometimes a can of food can lure a hungry and scared pet to you.
- Find your microchip paperwork and make sure it’s up-to-date. At For Kitty’s Sake, we will take care of the initial registration for you and provide you with all the information so you’re prepared if you’re in a situation where you’ve lost your pet.
- Check with your local shelters every day. Don’t just call — also visit the shelters to search for your pet.
- Call all animal control agencies in your town and surrounding areas. Animal control officers work through the police department and pick up stray animals. Call them or check their shelters at least every two days.
- Visit the websites of national locator services:
- Join local Facebook Groups for lost and found pets.
- Post on the Nextdoor app
- Use your pet’s photo to make “lost pet” signs. If you create a PawBoos account, they will automatically make one for you. Put them up in your neighborhood and in post offices, libraries, pet supply stores, veterinary offices, and grocery stores. Inform your veterinarian and groomer that your pet is lost in case they receive a call.
- Watch the found ads. Respond to any that might be close to your pet’s description. A week of wandering the streets can make white pets look drab gray, and the ad’s description might not exactly fit.
Helpful Phone Numbers if You’ve Lost Your Pet
For Kitty’s Sake
HomeAgain Microchip
Gloucester County Animal Shelter/ Animal Control
Camden County Animal Shelter/ Animal Control
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.