Lost & Found Program
HSCC's Lost and Found Program gives our community a central location where lost and found pet reports can be made. As this service becomes more widely known, we are increasingly the first stop for people who have lost or found an animal. Please remember, however, we're not always the first stop for a lost pet. Many pets (lost dogs in particular) are picked up by local animal control, law enforcement, and caring citizens. Be sure to check with local authorities and neighbors as well as contacting HSCC.
If you have lost your pet immediately search your property as both cats and dogs might seek a safe spot near or around your home. These spaces can often be tiny little crevices so searching thoroughly is recommended. Alert any neighbors about your missing pet and promptly take the proper measures below to ensure the highest likelihood of a safe return. Remember - all pets adopted from HSCC in the last two or three years have been micro-chipped. If your pet is an HSCC alum, be sure to contact us as well as the chip company and alert them that your pet is missing (as many companies provide additional services such as geographical email blasts and faxes to local animal hospitals and veterinary clinics.)
What do I do if I've lost my cat or dog?
- Immediately call our Lost Pet extension at 802-862-0135 ext. 21 and be prepared to leave a message providing our staff with a detailed description of your pet as well as information regarding when and where your pet went missing. Or, even better - send an email with that information (and a photo if you have one) to bestfriends@chittendenhumane.org. Please include the following:
Last seen (date):
Last seen (where)
Name of pet:
Age:
Gender (spayed/neutered?):
Description (please include short/medium/long haired):
Any white? Where:
Microchip?
Declawed?
Extra Toes?
Collar/Tag?
Distinquishing markings:
- Call your local Animal Control Officer, your local Police Department, and any veterinarians in the area where your pet went missing.
- If your pet is micro-chipped, notify the company with whom the chip is registered as many provide assistance in getting the word out about a lost pet.
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Walk the neighborhood again calling the animal's name frequently - taking the time to pause and listen. Try this several times during the day, especially when the neighborhood is quite. Try bringing a tasty treat or perhaps your dog's favorite squeaky toy along with you.
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Place familiar household-scented articles outside to attract your pet. You may also want to try setting up a little shelter with a familiar bed or blanket inside.
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Post flyers within a 1 mile radius and put an ad in the classifieds (i.e., Craigslist or your local paper - most lost pet ads are free of charge). Be sure to include the name, location where the animal went missing, photo, and any other detailed information about your pet (age, gender, collar, unique markings, etc.).
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Frequently check the found animals section of your local paper, online classifieds, or Front Porch forum.