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Dog in Nature

WHEN YOUR DOG GOES MISSING

Losing a dog can be a distressing experience for any pet owner. Time is of the essence in such situations, as acting quickly can significantly increase the chances of a successful reunion. The first hours after a dog goes missing are crucial, as they are likely still within the vicinity and easier to locate.

 

Therefore, it's essential to spring into action immediately, utilising available resources to begin the search process. Follow the tips below on what to do when your dog goes missing and always remember, pets with ID collars/tags and an up-to-date microchip get home much quicker.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR DOG GOES MISSING

 

On the day they go missing:
 

  1. Post on our group right away. Also post on your local community groups for your area. Make sure to use a clear photo and include the date, time and place your dog went missing from and your contact details. https://www.facebook.com/groups/LostandFoundPetsIllawarra
     

  2. Ask your neighbours if they have seen your dog wandering in the street or perhaps taken them in to keep them safe. Ask them to keep a look out for your dog and leave your phone number with them if they don't have it.
     

  3. Check the usual route/places you walk or go with your dog, as well as parks, schools and shops.
     

  4. While you are searching, check your post throughout to see if anyone has seen your dog.
     

  5. Call your local council and vets to see if your dog has been handed in. Make sure you give them a clear description of your dog and your details, so they can contact you if someone finds your dog.
     

  6. Log into the NSW Pet Registry and change the status of your dog to “Missing” ad check that your contact details are up to date on your dog's microchip. www.petregistry.nsw.gov.au/#/

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR DOG GOES MISSING

 

On the following days: 

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  • Continue to check your social media posts to see if anyone has seen your dog.
     

  • Bump all of your posts on social media to make sure people are still seeing your post.
     

  • Check your local council website to see if they have your dog impounded. Wollongong – https://wollongong.nsw.gov.au/book-and-apply/pets/lost-and found-pets Shellharbour – https://www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/living-here/owning pets/lost-and-found-animals/shellharbour-city-councils-lost-dog-registry
     

  • Print "Lost Dog" flyers (download below) for letterbox drops and put them on poles, at vets, shops, community notice boards etc. Put any that are outside, upside down in plastic sleeves with tape along the opening so that they do not get wet. Include a photo of your dog, the date and place he/she went missing from and your contact details.
     

  • Put an ad on Gumtree or in a local paper. Include a photo and details of where the dog went missing and contact details.
     

  • Look beyond your immediate area. Dogs can travel long distances or can be picked up by well-meaning people going to different areas. Contact out of area vets and animal shelters.

Furry Dog

DOWNLOAD EXAMPLE LOST POSTER
(WORD FORMAT. FILL IN YOUR DETAILS AS REQUIRED & PRINT COPIES)

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IMPORTANT
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LOST & FOUND GENERAL ENQUIRY

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LOST & FOUND PETS ILLAWARRA
Report a pet lost or found

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LostandFoundPetsIllawarra/about

LOST & FOUND PETS ILLAWARRA RESCUE  
Rescue A Pet

https://www.facebook.com/LostandFoundPetsIllawarraRescue

WOLLONGONG COUNCIL RANGER

☎ 4227 7111

SHELLHARBOUR COUNCIL RANGER

☎ 4221 6111

KIAMA COUNCIL RANGER

☎ 0409 917 092

WIRES

☎ 1300 094 737

WILDLIFE RESCUE SOUTH COAST

☎ 0418 427 214

AUSTRALIAN SEABIRD RESCUE

☎ 0431 282 238

ILLAWARRA SNAKE CATCHER

☎ 0418 162 441

REPTILE RESCUE & RELOCATION

☎ 0400 734 225

ORRCA (WHALES, SEALS ETC)

☎ 9415 3333

ANIMAL POISON CENTRE

☎ 1300 869 738

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