Help! My Dog Is Lost - What Do I Do ?



Losing a pet can be one of the scariest experiences a pet owner may ever be faced with. Here in North Andover, well we seem to know this well. This past year our town has seen an upswing in dogs getting away from their owners and taking a stroll around town.
The BEST way to find your dog is to act quickly. If your dog has taken off, gotten out of his collar, snuck out the door or you just can't find him: Call North Andover Animal Control, Amy McCarthy at the North Andover Police Dept. 978-683-3168

START your search immediately. Please do not wait for your pet to "just return home". Grab your leash, some treats, a bottle of water and a blanket. Put a crate in your car and begin your search.
As you are reading this STOP what you are doing right now and take a PICTURE of your dog !
( why not? He is cute anyway) Keep an up to date photo on your phone and download a copy to your computer. Update this picture a few times a year and make a note of any special markings your pet may have.
TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR LOST PET

• Immediately contact NAPD , contact Bulgers Animal Hospital and also contact Andover Animal Hospital and the MSPCA to complete a lost pet report.
• Make sure you supply the best telephone number to reach you any time of the day in case your pet is found.
• Post fliers with your pet’s picture around the area where he was last seen and around your neighborhood.
• Contact your Veterinarian

ADDITIONAL TIPS - SOCIAL MEDIA utilize every form of social media available

• Post a picture of your pet on your Facebook page and ask all your family, friends, your dog walker, groomer and everyone else you can think of to share your post.
• Craig's List is a must as your pet may leave your town and go over to a surrounding community. CL has a broad readership
• Twitter - start tweeting, you just never know who will see your tweet and your pooch !

Granite State Dog Recovery - contact this non profit organization that is dedicated to finding lost pets. They have teams all around New England to help you find your family furry friend. The success rate from this organization is unbelievable and it is must for you to contact them ASAP

• Call 1-800-639-LOST
• Lost@granitestatedogrecovery.com
• http://www.facebook.com/granitestatedogrecovery

WHAT YOU NEED TO RECLAIM YOUR PET

• Current government issued identification with your name and address (driver’s license; state ID, etc)
• Current vaccination records
• Pictures of your pet
• Proof of ownership (vaccination records, adoption
  papers, bill of sale, dog license)
• There are some fees involved in reclaiming your pet.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE

• DO NOT leave your animal unattended for long periods of time. Many pets become lost because they have been outside in a yard or enclosure and they escape from an unnoticed opening. Sometimes they are just bored and want to roam.
• Always be sure your animal is wearing an appropriate collar with an identification tag and your contact information. If you change your telephone number, make sure you get a new tag for your pet with the updated information and put your email address on it too!
• License your dog. North Andover only charges $20.00 for a license. Dogs wearing dog licenses are much more likely to be reunited with their families
• Microchip your pet. Most veterinarians and shelters/rescue leagues can provide this service at a low cost.
• Secure all outside enclosures where you keep your pet
• NEVER walk your dog off leash

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