Finding good homes for homeless pets

Tips from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

So, you've found a stray ...
... or you've rescued an animal from an intolerable situation ...
... or maybe you feel circumstances are forcing you to give up a family pet.

Whatever the reason, you've now got an animal that needs a good home. These guidelines are designed to help you place an animal currently in your keeping. Please don't hesitate to call or write us if you have more questions after reading this guide. And, if you need an understanding ear, don't hesitate to call. Remember, we care for animals seven days a week, we understand your situation and are good listeners.

What to do with a stray:

First: Call the owner and arrange for a pick-up or, if the animal has only a rabies tag, call the veterinarian whose number is listed and they can tell you who the owner is.

Second: Place a "found" ad in your local paper. A typical found ad states the type of animal, where found, coloring and other distinguishing characteristics. Don't forget to include your phone numbers.

You may also want to leave out one characteristic about the animal, so when a person calls claiming to be the owner, you can verify the animal is really theirs. Also, don't hesitate to ask for some verification from the caller, such as a veterinarian's phone number, to ensure that you've found the real owner.

Please note that every city has different laws about strays. You may want to check with the animal control department in your city to see what your legal duties are.

Ways to locate a missing owner

• Call your local humane society, city pound, police department or other organizations that track missing animals.
• Put fliers in the vicinity where you found the animal; also at vet offices or pet stores -- photos help.

Medical care for strays

You'll have better luck adopting out animals if they're healthy and spayed or neutered.

We recommend having the animal checked by a veterinarian. This is particularly important if you've picked up a cat and you have other cats at home. You need to check for Feline Leukemia. Also, a longtime stray is likely to have worms. Again, a veterinarian can help with treatment.

It is very important that every animal, whether they're inside or outside pets, be spayed or neutered. Ask your veterinarian if they have a low-cost program. They may give you a deal if they know the animal is a stray.

Other numbers to call to find low-cost spay and neuter programs in your area include: (800) 248-SPAY and (800) 321-PETS.

For more information, contact Best Friends Animal Sanctuary at (435) 644-2001, or e-mail info@bestfriends.org