The following information is provided by Tamara Kucik. She worked previously at the Humane Society and a local animal shelter. She continues to work with rescue groups, all of which are in close contact with the local animal shelter.
- File a Found Pet Report. Many people will use a shelter as their first stop for a lost pet. You can submit a found pet report online by visiting 24PetConnect’s website, by calling the shelter at (240) 773-5900 during regular business hours, or in person by visiting the Animal Services Center during regular business hours. Shelters will match up lost/found reports. You do not have to turn the animal into the shelter to file a report.
- Most cats you see outdoors are not in need of intervention and should be left where they are. So first determine whether this is a cat in need of immediate attention such as being sick or injured. 75% of found cats live within .3 miles of where found. A cat that continues to linger day and night, is an exception.
- Shelters often work with local rescue groups to foster overflow. Kucik has personally fostered ferrets, rabbits and snakes. If you’d like to learn more about fostering, contact the shelter. There is no cost to you to foster — all supplies, vet visits, etc are covered by the shelter or the rescue group sponsoring the animal.
- You CAN foster a found pet in your home, but, there are certain safety precautions that should be taken for the safety of the members of your household, and the found animal.
- You can also create a Found Pet profile on Petco Love Lost, which uses facial recognition to match lost and found postings. Post photos and info on social media (Facebook, Instagram, NextDoor and local listservs). Encourage others to share.
- Wildlife is a different story. Second Chance accepts some injured/abandoned wildlife. The Humane Society has helpful information.
