What to do when Rover roves

Last Friday, I saw the flashing lights of a police car shining into our living room window. I looked out and saw a police officer and two other men who had gotten out of their cars, all trying to entice a large and frightened dog. I suspect they were trying to read his collar, which told us that he belonged to someone and could be far away from home.

The dog understandably barked and backed up away from the men. I went over with a treat, and, after a while, the dog came closer. Just as I was about to attempt to read his collar, a girl came out of the house, thanking us for finding “Charlie,” who had never gone further than his own immediate territory. So much for a big rescue.

Although this ended well, It’s a terrible feeling when your beloved animal gets loose and runs away. Although he may just consider it a fun break in his otherwise predictable day, you know the dangers your pet faces — and they are flashing through your mind right now: cars racing down the street, cold temperatures, no food.

How do I find my lost pet?

The first thing to do is look around yourself, starting with the area around your house. Take family members with you — animals will most likely respond to familiar faces and voices more easily than to a stranger. Along with the usual “Here boy!” “Here girl!” (to which they may run the other way, thinking that you are now part of their Big Adventure), bring some treats with you that you know they like. There’s nothing like bribery to rein in a stray animal. Also, a favorite squeak toy that will sound familiar to them.

You can also put up flyers, but heed your community’s ruling about postings. If you find a dog or cat, it must go to the shelter in the area that you found the dog. To look for your pet, call your local shelter (The Town of Hempstead in Wantagh for this area), or better yet, visit the shelter in person. Animal Control officers in the Town of Hempstead respond to over 6,000 requests for service, including 500 night emergency calls, every year. As a part of a search, phone friends that live in your community, and use the local networking sites online to get the word out.

Preventing the Great Escape