How to Advertise a Missing Pet on Craigslist

Craigslist is an online community that resembles a virtual bulletin board. If you are looking for places to advertise a missing pet, Craigslist may be the perfect choice: not only is it free to users, but it is also read by 25 million people every day.

Instructions

    • 1

      Log in to your local Craigslist (there is one for every major city), click "Post to Classifieds" and choose "Community" and then "Lost &Found." Not only can you advertise for a missing pet here, but you can also look to see if anybody has posted a "Found" ad that matches your pet.

    • 2

      Choose your county, if applicable.

    • 3

      Create a title that demands attention. Include the type of pet (dog or cat) and the word "lost" in the title. If you are offering a reward, say so in the title, and use all capitals so the word stands out. While most people who help would do so out of kindness, a reward may increase your chances that everybody will pay attention.

    • 4

      Write a brief description of your pet, including its physical description and when and where you last saw it. Don't post your exact address, but let people know the approximate area where your pet was last seen. For example, you can use corner streets or use a well-known building or landmark to identify the location.

    • 5

      Provide a phone number. Craigslist automatically inserts an email link in your ad, so people can contact you directly by simply clicking on it. However, including a phone number is also important, as you may not be home to read the email for hours. If your pet is injured or in need of emergency help, you will want to be notified immediately.

    • 6

      Enter your email address. You will need to do this to approve the listing later and activate it on the site. Craigslist will give you the option of "anonymizing" your email address so that others can only contact you through Craigslist and not directly.

    • 7

      Include a photo. Craigslist allows you to post up to three photos per ad without the need for any additional software or program download. Hit "Add/Edit Images" to browse your hard drive and upload photos. Use clear color photos that show the color, special markings and size of your pet.

    • 8

      Check your email account for a confirmation email from Craigslist. After clicking on the provided hyperlink, you can review and edit your ad before approving it.