Having a pet become lost or stolen can be devastating. You may not be able to think clearly at the time, yet you will need vital information to inform the authorities and to begin your search. In light of all of the reports of pets lost in tornadoes and other disasters, it is a good idea to create a pet I.D. packet in advance. It will be valuable if your pet is lost or stolen.
Information to Put in the Pet I.D. Packet
We have all taken cute pictures of our pets, but do they really show the pet well? Your pet will be hard to identify if the picture shows him hiding under a fuzzy blanket. Take several photos of your pet that clearly shows any markings or identifying traits such as one ear standing up and the other one drooping. If the pet has strange colored eyes, or possibly two different colored eyes, make sure you have a good photo of that.
Place these identifying photos in a folder, or manila envelope, that has plainly been labeled “Pet ID Packet” and include your pet’s name. If you have more then one pet, make individual packets for each pet. You might even want to make several packets for each pet, so you can quickly give one to authorities if necessary.
Make copies of proof of ownership such as a veterinarian bill with your pet’s name on it, registration papers or AKC certifications. If your pet is found by someone they may request proof of ownership to give him back. Don’t be offended by this. There are people who will attempt to claim a dog or cat that isn’t theirs with the intent of selling the pet or worse. Requiring proof of ownership to return him is for your pet’s safety.
Make a list of contact numbers of services that will help you find your missing or stolen pet. The list should include your vet’s number, the local shelter, the police and animal control. It is a good idea to list the facebook pages of lost and found pets so that you can quickly access them and get your pet’s picture posted. The people that host these pages will be quick to help you share your pet’s information.
When you make the list of vital pet information, add your pet’s microchip number or tattoo and any other identifying tags, such as city licensing or rabies tag numbers. These numbers can help agencies quickly identify your pet if he is picked up by animal control.
Add a Generic Flyer
Use your computer to make up a generic flyer for your missing or stolen pet. You can include a photo, a general description and a contact number. Having this flyer ready to hand out at a minutes notice may aide in a quick recovery. Save the flyer on your computer so that you can update it and add more information in the event your pet becomes lost or stolen.
You may think that there isn’t any chance of ever losing your pet or of someone stealing him. In cases of disasters such as tornadoes, fire or floods you can possibly get separated from your pet. Rescuers may come into the area picking up pets, or the pet could travel for many miles, running scared.
Hanah, an American Bulldog from Joplin, was ripped from her owner’s arms during a tornado and they still continue to search for her nine months later. They have many photos that show her clearly and even marked her eyes that are two different colors. These photos have helped them to keep flyers circulated, showing exactly what she looks like. You can lose your pet when you least expect it. Be prepared with the vital information and photos you need.
More by this contributor:
Pets Lost in Joplin Tornado: Owners Still Searching
Dog Theft on the Rise: How to Protect Your Pet