Losing a pet may be one of the most heartbreaking anyone will ever experience. We are here to guide you and getting your pet home quickly and safely is what we strive for. Beware of Pet Theft Brought to you by D.A.W.G. (Dog Advisory Work Group) It’s happening all over the U.S. And stolen pets may be used in horrible, unimaginable ways. It’s even a "business!" You can protect your pets from theft by following a few simple rules: NEVER leave your pet tied outside a store. DO NOT leave your pet alone in your car. DO NOT leave your pet alone in an unlocked back yard. Even if you have locks on your gate, it is still possible for someone to steal your pet and it’s been done. NEVER allow your pets (dogs or cats) to roam streets and alleys unattended. ALWAYS make sure that you leave your pet in the care of someone who is as careful about your pet’s welfare as you would be. Insist they abide by the above rules. Always report pet theft to the police: call 311 to file a police report (or 911 if it’s in progress). Prevention What can you do to prevent another escape? Secure all windows, screens, doors and fences. In addition to secure ID, make sure all guests, pet sitters, and hired workers at your house are aware that you have an animal and understand all the house rules concerning your pet. Also microchip your pet. How to Protect Your Pets Now: Safeguard your pets before they are lost by following the common-sense tips below. Pet-proof your yard fence so your cat or dog will be secured safely. Be sure to check your fence regularly for new holes or lose boards. Keep fence gates securely locked. This is for the safety of both your pet and any visitors (wanted or unwanted). Never allow your pets to roam free in the neighborhood. Leash them at all times. Always transport a cat in a carrier. Never take your cat to the Vet or anywhere else unless it is secured. A carried cat may be frightened by various noises and attempt to get lose and hide. Always leash your dogs when taking them anywhere. If a dog gets loose in an unfamiliar area its chances of ever finding its way home are limited. Get some good photos of your pet now and be sure pictures reflect special details about your pet. Most snapshots of pets look like any other cat or dog. You want your photos to be unique. These photos could be important to you later if your pet is ever lost.  Ensure that YOU can be located if your pet is found. Always keep a collar on your pet with a tag that has your CURRENT PHONE NUMBER on it and maintain a current rabies tag. Please remember pets can lose their collars. For real security, a backup is needed and we suggest you speak with your vet about a microchip implant. A chip provides reliable identification for your pet and all modern shelters scan animals for this ID device. And finally, spay or neuter your pets! Animals will be much less likely to wander if they are "fixed." An added benefit is that they will live a longer, happier, healthier life if they are spayed or neutered.