Tips to find your lost pet
Act Immediately
Search your neighborhood
Post to social media
The longer you wait, the further away your pet can travel and the higher the probability they could get injured. In many cases, they are nearby. Call their name, squeak their favorite toy or rattle the treat bag to get their attention.
Post to social media
Search your neighborhood
Post to social media
Create a public post (so it can be shared) with your pet's photo, distinguishable marks and your contact information. If your pet is on medication or has special needs, relay that information as well.
Search your neighborhood
Search your neighborhood
Search your neighborhood
Most lost pets are found within 3 blocks from home. Knock on doors and talk to neighbors. Leave your number in case they find your pet at a later time. Walk, ride a bicycle or drive slowly through your neighborhood and call the pet's name.
Notify Animal Control
Search your neighborhood
- Bedford Street Department 812-279-9222
- Lawrence County Sheriff's Office 812-275-3316
- Mitchell Street Department 812-849-2211
- Town of Oolitic 812-275-6813
Visit the Shelter
Scroll through our Facebook Page where we post new animals that have been brought to the shelter to see if your pet may be at WRHS. You are also welcome to come to the shelter by appointment or during regular business hours to take a look to see if your pet is at the shelter.
Post Flyers
Post flyers in the area where you lost your pet. Flyers should include your pet’s photo, a brief description, and your phone number. If you can afford it, you might consider offering a reward.
Prevent your pet from getting lost
Spay & Neuter your pets
Spaying / neutering can reduce the risk of your pet running away, as they are less likely to leave your house or wander off in search of mates.
Microchip your pet
WRHS can microchip your pet (with proof of ownership) for only $15, whether you adopted your pet through us or not. There are no annual fees associated with our microchips. As important as microchips are, they’re only as useful as the information attached to them. Be sure review your contact information regularly and update when necessary (i.e. new phone #, new address, new owner, etc.)
Make sure your pet has a collar and ID tags
People are more likely to approach a pet wearing a collar and ID tag, because it indicates this could be a lost pet and not a stray animal. A tag is likely the first place a finder will look when trying to get a lost pet back home. Tags can become worn and illegible over time, and pets can sometimes slip out of their collar. That’s why it’s important to also take steps to microchip your pet and keep your records up to date, as well.
Train your pets
Work with your pet daily to follow commands. Hire a trainer or attend training classes. View numerous videos online for tips on at home training routines. A trained pet is more likely to follow commands to keep them safe.
Keep pets on a leash
Even if your dog is well trained, you never know what your pet may encounter that could cause them to react unexpectedly. If you're not in a secured area (such as a fenced perimeter that is taller than your pet can jump) the leash will allow you to guide your dog safely.