Start looking immediately. Don't wait for your pet to find their way home. Don't assume that because he/she ran off before and made it back home safely that your pet will be as lucky this time.

Come into the Shelter to look. We will do our best to help you over the phone but it is often difficult to say for certain if your pet is here. Descriptions can be vague in terms of color, size, and even breeds. We may have 200 animals receiving shelter and care. Many of these pets may be described as black/brown; medium; shepard mixes. Please come in as soon as possible and visit the Montgomery County Animal Shelter everyday until your pet is found.

Tell Everyone

• Mail carrier
• Neighbors
• Bus drivers
• Children
• Your vet
• Anyone who regularly is in your neighborhood

Make Up Flyers

• Describe your pet in detail
• Copy a clear photo if available
• List more than one phone number
• Post wherever you have permission to do so
• School bulletin boards
• Gas station
• Vet offices
• Church bulletin boards
• Distribute at a major shopping complex/grocery in your area. This will provide a greater range of coverage than going door to door.

Place an ad in the newspaper.

Dayton Daily News: (937) 223-1515  (may offer special rates)
Area/Neighborhood papers

Report to local law enforcement. Not all will accept but many do take a report

Check with other area agencies:

Unfortunately, there is no shortage of animals in our community. The classifieds are full of "Free To A Good Home" ads placed by owners who need to or want to get rid of their pet. Most people who want a dog have a dog. People are not going to steal someone's pet when there are so many available with no threat of legal recourse.

No matter how sweet, talented, obedient and/or wonderful your lost pet is most people will attempt to locate the rightful owner. We get calls daily from people wanting to return an obviously loved and owned pet.

How did your pet get loose?

Hopefully, your pet will be home again soon.

• Repair that hole in the fence.
• Put a lock on the gate.
• Replace that clothesline with a chain the size and weight appropriate for your dog.
• Do not use a corkscrew type tie outs

An ounce of prevention:

• Do not leave your pet outside when you are not home.
• Spay or neuter your pet.
• Train your pet to come when called.
• Regularly exercise your pet.
• Train your pet to sit and not dart out your door.
• Caution your kids and their friends about leaving the doors/gates open.
• Remember to keep license information updated with current address and phone number.