What To Do If Your Pet Was Stolen

It can be safely said that every pet owner's worst nightmare is for someone to steal their pet. In the event that your pet does go missing, and you believe he might have been stolen, it's important to be proactive about it. Don't sit back and expect your pet to wander back through the front door. If he is truly stolen, and didn't merely run away, he'll never come back unless swift action is taken.

First, as soon as you realize your pet is missing and you believe he's been stolen, report it to the police. You might think it's stupid or silly to report an animal theft to the police, but they can't do anything to help you if you don't inform them of the situation. It may turn out that there is nothing they can do about it, but if they get several reports of missing animals in your area, they may have enough of a reason to justifying putting time and resources into determining the cause.

After you've contacted the police, check with nearby animal shelters and veterinary offices. If you tell them that you believe your pet was stolen, they can be on the lookout for your pet should he turn up at their door. Most vets and animals shelters will ask for a description of your pet, and then inform other people, vets, and organization of your situation.

If your pet is tattooed or microchipped, but sure to let the police, animal shelter, veterinarian, and anyone else you tell know that. If an animal is brought in that meets your pet's description, they can scan for the microchip or check to see if there is a tattoo that matches your description.

Put up flyers. This tried but true method is very effective and has helped bring home countless missing pets.