Instructions
Thoroughly search your property, inside and out. Small dogs can fall into or hide in small spaces. Check any space that your dog can fit in to and be sure to call its name or make noise while searching.
Search your neighborhood and knock on your neighbors' doors to find out if they have seen your dog. Leave contact information so they can reach you with any new information. Inquire about your dog with everyone you meet along your search, including delivery men, construction workers and children. Be sure to make lots of noise while searching. If your dog has a favorite squeaky toy, bring it along with you.
Visit the Tri-County Animal Shelter (TCAS) daily and check with as many local rescue organizations and Humane Society offices as possible. See the Resources section for a list of phone numbers for animal control, Humane Society and rescue organizations in Charles County.
Create flyers with a recent, color photo of your dog and post them around the neighborhood. According to Petrescue.com, flyers are responsible for reuniting pets with their owners more than any other source.Petrescue.com recommends using brightly colored or fluorescent paper for high visibility. The paper should be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches and include the date the dog was lost, weight, breed, markings and your telephone number. If you are offering a reward, do not give an amount. Use caution when meeting with anyone who claims to have found your dog to avoid scams. Do not include everything about your dog in the flyer, so that this information can be used during a phone conversation to determine if it is actually your dog that the person you are speaking with has found.
Contact veterinary clinics, groomers, animal hospitals and pet stores in Indian Head and the surrounding area. People often bring found pets to the first animal care or sales business they come across. These businesses can also be good resources for finding lost pets because they are likely to keep a list of rescue organizations and network with other pet businesses.
Check Internet message boards, including the Charles County's "Lost Animals" list for lost and found pets. See the Resources section for a link to the website.
Place items with strong, familiar scents around the outside of your home. Animals often "smell" their way home and items such as gym socks, blankets or some of their favorite treats may help them find their way. If the weather permits, putting another pet outside in a crate can also help.
How to Find My Lost Dog in Indian Head, Maryland
Pets are an integral part of our lives, communities and families. Losing a dog can be an extremely stressful and traumatic event, however taking certain steps to find your dog can increase your chances of a joyful reunion. Indian Head, Maryland, is located in Charles County. Charles County's lost animals are housed in the Tri-County Animal Shelter (TCAS), the only government-run shelter in the Tri-county area. There are also a variety of rescue organizations and Humane Society offices in the area.