Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio

21/08/2024

Hollywood Feed - Powell Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio is so appreciative of our partnership with Hollywood Feeed- Powell.

Thank you to the Powell residents that are also so generous. This is our second car load.

18/08/2024

DID YOU KNOW? We are in the Midst of Clear the Shelters Month. What is Clear the Shelters you ask?
Clear The Shelters sees NBC and Telemundo stations nationwide partner with animal shelters and rescues in their local communities to promote pet adoptions and to raise funds.

Last year, over 150 NBC and Telemundo stations teamed up with 1,400-plus shelters and rescues located across 49 states and territories, including Puerto Rico and Guam.

The campaign is celebrating its ten year anniversary and has helped to get over one million animals into homes. You may have see your local NBC affiliate doing spots on pet adoption over the past few weeks or encouraging those that cannot adopt to donate. Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio does their part to Clear the Shelters by collaborating to get primarily collies and similar breeds out of the high risk shelter situation and into the safety of foster homes where they receive the medical attention and tender loving care they need to find forever families.

Pet over population is a serious burden on society from financial to emotional. Irresponsible pet owners and irresponsible breeders are the starting point of a tragic, vicious cycle. Only one of about 10 dogs born in the United States will find a safe, loving, permanent home. Support your local shelters and rescues. Support the workers and volunteers that help these animals. Support only excellent breeders. We can't all adopt, foster or donate, but most of us can spread the word and play at least some small part in Clearing the Shelters in an attempt to end the sad cycle of wonderful animals in overcrowded shelters that all too often, never get to leave.

15/08/2024

https://youtu.be/3FECBMCtKt0?si=Y_wKrOiwauO6CIe7

Dear Golfers, Sponsors and Donation participants,
Our 13th annual Pars FORE Pets was another huge success! With your generous donations, we will be able to obtain needed funds in our quest to save dogs from abuse and neglect, taking in surrendered pets and rescuing and rehoming senior and handicapped dogs to live out their years in loving and safe homes.

The day could not have been more perfect with beautiful weather, great friends, a spectacular golf course and of course our adorable dogs!

On behalf of Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio, we sincerely thank you from the bottom of our hearts and look forward to our 14th annual outing in 2025.

Warmest regards
Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio

11/08/2024

Did You Know: August 4-10th was International Assistance Dog Week. It is in honor of Service Dogs and the trainers that work to help so many people. Assistance Dogs help people lead fuller lives by learning to do a multitude of different tasks. Some are true Guide Dogs for the blind. Some are Hearing Dogs for the deaf and others help perform daily tasks such as carrying items or assisting those challenged with mobility. Service dog types include: Mobility Service Dog, Seizure Service Dog, Autism Service Dog, Diabetic Alert Service Dog, Psychiatric Service Dog, Service Dogs for Veterans with Military-related PTSD and Medical Alert Service Dog. These dogs and their trainers are true heroes. One important thing to note, Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals (ESA) are not one in the same. Service Animals are highly trained to do specific tasks and are able to go into most public space under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Emotional support animals are important in their own way, but ARE NOT true service animals with the extreme training to be in all public spaces or to perform specific tasks or protection from ADA. There is NO REGISTRY for ESA animals and people are often duped into purchasing a certificate online that means nothing. ESAs SHOULD NOT wear Service Animal vests or tags or be passed off as Service Animals (this has become a problem, and many untrained ESAs are doing a disservice to true Service Animals and their owners and trainers). ESAs are not allowed in all public spaces. ESAs are prescribed by a person's doctor and are usually granted the ability for housing allowances. I could argue that most people choose to have pet's for enjoyment and some emotional support, some people do truly have health benefits from having an ESA at home.

So let's give a shout out to all the Assistance Dogs and the people that foster and train them to make the lives of others better!

https://assistancedogsinternational.org/about/who-we-are/

04/08/2024

Did You Know…that The Ohio State University Extension Office (The 4-H Program) is currently using a publication from the CFAES (College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences) titled "Dog Resource Handbook” with a Sheltie going over an agility jump on its cover? That’s like getting free advertising for one of our beloved AHDRO breeds! Do you know the Sheltie in the picture on the cover of the Dog Resource Handbook?
https://extensionpubs.osu.edu/dog-resource-handbook/

If you’ve never been in 4-H, you’ve missed something HUGE as a kid! 4-H really does involve kids in “active learning” through engagement in program outlined projects. Kids aged 8-18 can participate in 4-H, and kids aged 5-7 may join “Cloverbuds.” Dogs count as a 4-H project and there are many ways kids can do a dog project for 4-H and participate in their County and State Fairs! Dog programs offer a broad range of activities and learning opportunities designed to create knowledgeable and responsible pet owners through tier outlined projects in which kids use skills and knowledge from one level/project to another.

If you have kids or grandkids, they could take part in 4-H after this year’s fairs end! Let them use your dog and get into the program! They’ll benefit not only from the educational aspects of it, but also from the social aspects of being part of a 4-H group! Fun, educational, and social networking for the whole family centered around dogs!

You could become of 4-H volunteer to help an existing group during meetings and activities; or start your own 4-H group! You don’t have to be a professional to be a Leader or other volunteer. Additionally, you could also support the 4-H dog programs through sponsorship, or offering trophies, ribbons, or other prizes for the kids!

Learn more at the OSU Extension website:
https://ohio4h.org/animalsciences/dog/dog-resources

The 4-H Dog Project Manual Facilitator Guide for Leaders and 4-H Members:
https://www.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/4-H-manual-FINAL-jan18-2022.pdf

02/08/2024

02/08/2024

Kelly is a beautiful, playful 8-year-old collie. She is a “people” girl who loves affection and hugs. She is looking for her forever home. could it be with you? 

28/07/2024

Did You Know… Enrichment means providing your dog(s) with things to do that yield physical and/or mental stimulation? Enrichment activities can help dogs learn, solve problems, and make decisions, can improve their confidence. Enrichment can also help with behavioral issues like anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity. Enrichment for your dog is important, but doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult; and it can be fun too!

While enrichment encompasses playtime, walks, and social interaction with other dogs, it also includes things you can do or provide to enrich their daily lives with activities that engage their senses in different ways. Puzzles, snuffle mats, training, and games are only a few enriching ideas. Using your imagination and creativity, you can create many low/no cost activities to help keep your dog from being bored.
A couple kibble based games include spreading single treats/kibble throughout a room and let your dog “sniff and search” to find it. You can also do this outside in a small area of your yard! Your yard becomes your dog’s giant outdoor snuffle mat! Other DIY dog enrichment ideas include: Frozen treats, homemade agility/obstacle course, towel treat roll-ups, scavenger hunts, and sandbox digs. Enrichment ideas for your dog(s) are limited to your creativity and good sense employing safety in all things. If you lack the creativity gene or need new ideas, try one of these books (available on Amazon and many libraries):
Enrichment Games for High-Energy Dogs: Your step-by-step guide to dog training fun! By Barbara Buchmayer
Dog Enrichment: Family-Friendly Games and Activities for You and Your Dog by Anna Muir

24/07/2024

📢 Stay in the Loop with Our Latest Newsletter! 📰

Don't miss out on the latest updates, heartwarming stories, and exciting news from AHDRO. Our new newsletter is out, and it's packed with great content you won’t want to miss!

Lots of great stories in the July 2024 newsletter. Check them out. Reminder if your email server is blocking you from receiving our newsletter, just add the following email address to your email contact list: [email protected] Here are the links to the videos in the newsletter:

24/07/2024

Meet Dirk, our dashingly handsome young Sheltie! Dirk loves playing outside and enjoys the company of both people and other dogs equally. He’s active indoors too, as young Shelties are known to be.

Dirk is a bit timid and only knows a couple of commands so far, but he’s motivated by treats and play, making training a fun possibility. Dirk loves walks and doesn’t bark frequently. He would thrive in a home where he’s either the only dog or with other friendly dogs.

Ready to meet Dirk? He’s waiting to fill your life with love and playful energy! https://www.almosthomeohio.org/adoptable-dogs/gyaslxh6ane7x6g-4k86m-hmezn-bhpry-4ecdj-99yx4-p8z87-f2b36-jhemp-k2kny-9yga2-xcjwj-tdhap-x3nsd-wl8zr-a29ym-apffx-lbjx9-fnatx-6zz87-gkftp-z55ja-wys9d-59m69-t84bf-kyyl9-smyn4-hfptr-e9c8y

21/07/2024

Did You Know?…Trick training your dog is a terrific way to wear dogs out mentally when they can’t go outside and get worn out physically? According to research by over a dozen universities and other organizations, training your dog to do something new is as or more tiring than a 30-minute game of ball?

Trick training sessions can help wear your dog out. It’s good for both of you, enhancing overall behavior and your relationship with your dog. If you’ve ever wanted a dog that knows a lot of tricks, start training your dog to do some now, while it’s often too hot outside to safely wear them out physically! Pet Therapy dogs can benefit from learnings tricks to help engage with and entertain the people they visit and even help with physical therapy-especially with kids!

If you don’t know how to get started trick training your dog, there are many books and videos available online. Most trick training books have explanations broken down into steps for teaching each trick. Here are some books to get you started (all on Amazon):

The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever by Lary Kay and Chris Perondi

The Best Dog Tricks on the Planet: 106 Amazing Things Your Dog Can Do on Command by Babette Haggerty and Barbara Call

The Only Dog Tricks Book You’ll Ever Need by Gerilyn J. Bielakiewicz

It’s never too late to enjoy having a great Trick Dog!

18/07/2024

Meet Waylon, he is around 1-1.5 years old and looking for his forever family!

He had a rough start in life, being surrendered by his owners and then contracting distemper at the shelter where he and his brother were taken. Despite this, Waylon is the sweetest and most loving dog.

He enjoys being petted and staying close to his person. Waylon loves walks and is excellent on a leash. Waylon knows the commands sit, stay, and paw. https://www.almosthomeohio.org/adoptable-dogs/gyaslxh6ane7x6g-4k86m-hmezn-bhpry-4ecdj-99yx4-p8z87-f2b36-jhemp-k2kny-9yga2-xcjwj-tdhap-x3nsd-wl8zr-a29ym-apffx-lbjx9-fnatx-6zz87-gkftp-z55ja-wys9d-59m69-t84bf-kyyl9-smyn4-hfptr-hsjpj

17/07/2024

Shawnee, a petite sheltie's former owner's living arrangements changed, so we were asked to find a new forever home for her.

Shawnee enjoys being outside. She plays and may even indulge in the zoomies. She enjoys walking on a leash. But indoors, that's where she loves to cuddle. Check her out on our site: https://www.almosthomeohio.org/adoptable-dogs/gyaslxh6ane7x6g-4k86m-hmezn-bhpry-4ecdj-99yx4-p8z87-f2b36-jhemp-k2kny-9yga2-xcjwj-tdhap-x3nsd-wl8zr-a29ym-apffx-lbjx9-fnatx-6zz87-gkftp-z55ja-wys9d-59m69-t84bf-2am82-tpkka

16/07/2024

Meet Eagan!

She is a small, bright, and attentive young pup currently undergoing treatment for heartworm, which limits her activity and freedom around the house.

She is treat and food motivated, making training easier, and enjoys exploring outside. Inside, she plays with toys for short periods but prefers to be with people, loving to cuddle and be petted.

Eagan is friendly with strangers, rarely barks, and shows a strong interest in people over other dogs. She is eagerly waiting for her forever home where she can enjoy endless petting and kissing.

https://www.almosthomeohio.org/adoptable-dogs/gyaslxh6ane7x6g-4k86m-hmezn-bhpry-4ecdj-99yx4-p8z87-f2b36-jhemp-k2kny-9yga2-xcjwj-tdhap-x3nsd-wl8zr-a29ym-apffx-lbjx9-fnatx-6zz87-gkftp-z55ja-wys9d-59m69-t84bf-2am82-tpkka-bspbs

15/07/2024

Did you know? These Dog Days of Summer can be dangerous times for our dogs, especially those with short noses or dark coats. Canines do not sweat to cool down like humans, they pant. The high heat and humidity can make it difficult for a dog to regulate its temperature, especially if there is no shade, air flow or access to water. Unfortunately, Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke are common this time of year. Both are technically hyperthermia, which means a dangerously high body temperature. A dog's normal body temperature can range from about 1010 to 102.50 F. When the core temperature gets about 1030 F, Heat Exhaustion can set in. Your dog may be panting excessively, even seem a bit confused, restless and maybe seeking a cool spot or water. If your dog is acting like this, it is time to get them into a cool place, preferably air conditioning, but at least in the shade with some airflow. Offer small amounts of room temperature to slightly cool water frequently. Do not force the dog to drink. Ideally, a re**al temperature should be taken every few minutes to make sure the body temperature in coming down. Call your vet and monitor your dog closely for the next 24 hours.

If the signs of Heat Exhaustion are missed, and the dog is unable to cool itself, Heat Stroke can set in. The core temperature will be above 1040 F and more severe symptoms such as even more exaggerated panting, abnormal gum color and/or bruising, inability to walk, collapse, unresponsiveness or even seizures. If the body temperature continues to rise, the dog may die. Emergency cooling procedures need to take place ASAP, but in a controlled manner. DO NOT put the dog in ice or cold water! This causes constriction of the small blood vessels and will further delay cooling. A steady flow of air temperature to slightly cool water is ideal with a fan directed at the pet if possible. Concentrate the water flow over the back of the head, chest, abdomen, armpits and groin. DO NOT try to make the pet drink. DO NOT cover the dog in wet towels unless you are constantly replacing them with cool ones, as the body will heat them quickly and heat will be trapped. You should take the re**al temperature every few minutes. Once the temperature is at or below 103.50 F, stop cooling measures to avoid he temperature dropping too low. Call a vet and make plans to get your dog there for further treatment and supportive care. If immediate cooling cannot take place due to lack of water, fans, shade, etc., get the dog to the nearest veterinarian. Always call ahead to make sure they can take the case and you are not wasting time driving somewhere that cannot provide proper treatment.

It is important to watch for the early signs of heat stress. Once a dog has suffered from a hyperthermia event, they are more prone to hyperthermia in the future. If the body temperature gets too high, irreversible damage can occur to the tissues and the dog may die several hours to several days later. For further information:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/systemic/hyperthermia-dogs
Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatments – American Kennel Club

14/07/2024

Please be on the lookout

06/07/2024

Did You Know...That pet insurance is NOT a scam? In fact, these days, pet insurance is almost a necessity, especially for those living on a budget (no matter the size). Pet insurance used to be outlandishly expensive and yielded little advantage relative to the premiums paid. That is no longer true!

The increasing costs of veterinary care can cause hardships on people paying for their pet’s vet care for illnesses or injuries, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. A simple broken toe can end up costing $5200! Surgeries can easily be $1000-$15,000, often followed by rehabs that can also be costly. Without insurance or good credit, a medical crisis may mean making a decision of life or death for your pet based solely on the cost of the vet bill. Regardless of insurance, sometimes you still have to make that decision, but having insurance lessens the odds. When you do make that decision, insurance may cover the euthanasia costs and the costs of your chosen means of handling Fido’s remains.

Pet insurance doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be worthwhile. Shop around and be sure to compare the costs and exactly the same benefits between different companies. Just like human insurance, the costs vary depending on the features of the coverage, so be sure to shop based on the features most necessary for your pets. It can be overwhelming to select a company and coverage you think is best, so ask people you know if they have pet insurance and their company. Ask them if they’ve had to use the insurance and their experience with that company. There are a number of great companies with good insurance plans, so if you don’t have insurance for your pet(s), start looking into it before you have a major vet bill you can’t cover. You don’t want to lose your beloved Fido simply because you can’t afford his vet bill.

04/07/2024

🇺🇸🐾 Happy Fourth of July from all of us at Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio🎆🐶 Let's celebrate freedom and cherish the loving bonds we share with our dogs today. Remember to keep your pets safe and inside during fireworks festivities.

02/07/2024

Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio has some beautiful pups looking for homes!

30/06/2024

Did you know? Summer time is a popular time to travel with your family, including pets. But, whether traveling by train, plane or automobile, be aware and prepare in advance for everything you may need. One thing that most people do not know is that an interstate health certificate is needed any time you cross state lines. It is very rarely asked for but is good to have on hand in case of any inspections or incidents. These can only be issued by a veterinarian and are only valid for about 30 days in most cases. If traveling by car, at the very least, make sure you have a print out of your dog's current vaccinations, most importantly rabies. If traveling by plane, it is best to have an official health certificate, even if the airline does not specifically ask for one. International travel and even taking a trip to Hawaii with a pet may take several months of advance paper work, so plan well ahead. For pets with specific health concerns, it may be a good idea to have a recent copy of their medical record. Some veterinarians now have online portals where you can get at least basic information if needed.

In addition to paper work, make sure you take any medications or special food your pet may need during travel. Talk to your vet about medications for motion sickness or anxiety. It is also not a bad idea to already have a veterinarian in mind at your destination, or even along the way, especially if your pet has a chronic illness. Previous articles have mentioned basic first aid and having a basic kit for both you and your pet. Knowing what to do and what not to can be essential should a crisis occur. Appropriate crates, harnesses, leashes and seatbelts should be used as well.

And in some cases, depending on your plans, it may be best to leave your pet at home. Some people love to visit National Parks, but very few are truly dog friendly, and there are currently many complaints of people trying to pass their dogs off as service animals by buying them fake vests. Be aware, the bison can't read and the rangers will still fine you. Many of the restrictions are for safety of humans, pets and wildlife. Sometimes, you may need to unexpectedly board your dog during a trip, so make sure vaccines, f***l checks and heartworm screenings are up to date. If you plan on staying in camp grounds or hotels, make sure they are pet-friendly and your dog has the right training and temperament for such overnights. We want our pets near us, and we'd like to think they will enjoy the travel with us, but if they will be spending long hours in cramped vehicle, or left alone crated while you explore, it may be better to leave them at home.

27/06/2024

Help needed

you may be tired of hearing this phrase but imagine how weary we are of feeling the need and the pressure....the phrase is " we desperately need foster homes".

There is a national crisis of dogs being surrendered to rescues and shelters. Many shelters are euthanizing owner surrender dogs upon intake.

The little sheltie here is estimated to be 5 yrs old, she is spayed and current on vaccines. The Knox Co. Humane Society called us asking if we could save her. She is heartworm positive. We have collies & shelties waiting to come in. However, shelter dogs are our first priority.

If you are in the Columbus area and you would like to help this little girl, please contact cheryl Rakich either on messenger or @gmail.com
Hoping someone can help. Thank you,

23/06/2024

**Our hearts are heavy for these two souls currently in quarantine.**

Meet Sam and Waylon. We rescued them on June 6th from the Christian Co. Animal Shelter in Hopkinsville, KY, unaware of a recent distemper outbreak there. Upon arrival at AHDRO vets, they developed symptoms including fevers, coughing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing. Since early June, they've been receiving intensive care with IV fluids and medications.

Both dogs remain hospitalized and face a prolonged recovery. Volunteers are even bringing chicken and rice to help them eat.

ADHRO is dedicated to providing every rescue with the best chance at a full and loving life. Each dog that comes to us receives comprehensive medical attention and care until they find their forever homes.

**How you can help:**

Please consider making a monetary donation to support Sam and Waylon's ongoing medical expenses. While we typically rely on our Pars FORE Pets funds for such needs, the unexpected extent of their care requires additional support.

Your contribution means everything to us. To donate towards Waylon and Sam's care, visit our website at www.almosthomeohio.org and select "Waylon and Sam" from the drop-down menu under purpose. If you prefer to donate by check, please send it to our Treasurer, Fred North, at:

5935 Reynoldsburg Baltimore Rd.
Pickerington, OH 43147

Thank you for your generosity and compassion. Your support makes a world of difference to these sweet Collies.

Sincere thanks,
Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio

20/06/2024

🌞🐾 Happy First Day of Summer from Almost Home Dog Rescue! 🐾🌞

Summer is here, and our furry friends are ready to soak up the sun and find their forever homes! 🏡❤️

This season, let's make it a summer of second chances for our precious collies and shelties. These sweet, gentle, and loving dogs are looking for families to share their warmth and joy with. Whether it's a playful day in the yard, a relaxing stroll in the park, or snuggling up on a sunny afternoon, these pups are ready to make unforgettable memories with you.

👉 Looking to adopt? Meet our adorable adoptable dogs https://www.almosthomeohio.org/adoptable-dogs

👉 Interested in fostering? We need loving temporary homes to help our rescues thrive. Learn more and sign up https://www.almosthomeohio.org/foster

👉 Want to support our mission? Donations help us cover medical bills and supplies. Donate via PayPal or Venmo, or mail a check to us. Every bit helps! https://www.almosthomeohio.org/donate

Let's kick off this summer with love, hope, and wagging tails! 🐶💕



📸 Share your summer pics with your furry friends in the comments below! ⬇️📷

17/06/2024

Did you know..if your dog suffers from noise phobias such as fear of fireworks and thunderstorms, NOW is the time to talk with your vet, not later. Many dogs have a fear of loud noises and the late spring and summer surely bring on events that exacerbate those fears. Desensitization and counter conditioning is the best, but sometimes, there is not enough time to do that before an event. Talk to your vet about medications that can help, and definitely try a Thundershirt. The real Thundershirt company has a trial period so you can see if it truly helps your dog. You can learn more about helping your dog overcome noise phobias..... Fear of Noises in Dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals

15/06/2024

AHDRO was at Cardinal Health today for PAWs!
AHDRO Foster dogs in attendance were Bingo, Kelly, Rae, Buddy, Midnight & Sassy. It was a great day! 

15/06/2024

🌞🐾 Watch Out for Heatstroke in Dogs! 🐾🌞

Dogs are notoriously bad at dissipating body heat, which makes them especially vulnerable to heatstroke (also known as hyperthermia). It is crucial to keep an eye out for early signs of heatstroke in our furry friends to prevent serious health issues.

Early Signs to Watch For:

- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
- Drooling more than usual
- Mild weakness or lethargy
- Increased heart rate
- Bright red or pale gums
- Confusion or unsteady movements

If You Notice These Symptoms:
- Move your dog to a cooler area immediately.
- Offer small amounts of cool water (not ice cold).
- Use cool, damp towels on their body, especially on their neck, armpits, and groin.
- Contact your vet for further instructions.

Let’s keep our pups safe and cool this weekend! 🌡️💦

Dogs are notoriously bad at dissipating body heat. Watch for early signs of heatstroke, also known as hyperthermia, in your dog to avoid serious outcomes.

09/06/2024

Want to make a difference? There are various ways to help AHDRO!

Almost Home relies on donations to continue rescuing dogs, as the cost often exceeds the adoption fee. The majority of medical expenses surpass the adoption donation, so financial support from animal lovers is crucial for covering medical bills and supplies. As a registered charitable organization, donations to Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio may be tax deductible. Donations can be made via PayPal, Venmo, or by mailing a check.

You can also join iGive, download the WolfTrax and log your walks, and sign up for Kroger Community Rewards!

https://www.almosthomeohio.org/ways-to-help
https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=S6TLF4EQDJGGE

09/06/2024

Did You Know…July 4th is the number one day on which the most pets are lost through misadventure due to fear of fireworks and party-related misadventure? Other high volume lost pet days include most holidays and celebrations during which many pets bolt through open doors, windows (even with screens), or gates while people attend gatherings as they enter/exit homes. Other misadventures are dogs bolting away from owners attending festivals or activities such as parades and fireworks.

There are things you can do to help mitigate lost pet scenarios:
· Microchipping your pet is the first, best means of identifying lost pets and increasing your chances of returned pets. Over 53% of microchipped pets are returned home according to nationwide surveys by both the American Veterinary Association and ASPCA.
· If you’ve got a microchipped pet, be sure to update the microchip information: every two months for puppies under one year old; every 4-6 months for adult dogs 1-3 years (because many breeds have changing hair coats until age three); every year for adult dogs over 3 years old.
· Taking regular, clear pictures of your pet(s) including face and full body shots (especially capturing special markings on sides and faces) can be your first best means of starting your lost pet search in the event your pet is lost.
· If your veterinary clinic includes a “client/patient portal” enabling including a picture of your pet, use it!
· Learn about local lost/found pet pages and follow them to have familiarity with the way they operate.
· Check with area pet stores and farm stores to see if they have a lost/found pet board you can post to or search.
· Create a lost pet poster now, while you’re clear-headed and have plenty of time to think it through. Make pictures fast and easy to update as well as any potential contacts. Include your veterinary clinic on your poster information and if possible include at least two family/friends that could also be contacted in the event your dog is found. Even better if all your listed contacts could also pick up your pet from a stranger in case you can’t be reached or can’t get there quickly.
· If you shop at pet and/or farms stores, most allow dogs. If possible, take your dog with you at least once in a while; and actively say hello and/or engage with store staff members. Staff members tend to remember those who interact with them in a friendly way.
· On holidays, especially July 4th and the weeks preceding and following, plan ahead to secure your home and your PET(S) in a crate or room in which they can be comfortable and secure. *If you know your pet(s) are highly noise adverse or have trouble with meeting new people, contact your veterinarian to get some anxiety medication at least a week prior to your gathering.
· Keep all visitors from opening any crate or doors without you. If necessary, put a sign on the door to leave it closed and do not enter.
· Leash your pet(s) while they are out even in your home and especially in the back yard! Keeping your pet(s) leashed reduces their opportunities for escape.
· If you travel with your dogs, particularly during July 4th, be sure they’re tethered in your vehicle or secured in a crate so that if a window is down or the door is opened, they can’t make an escape.