Found a lost pet wandering the streets of Denver - perhaps in your own backyard? There are things you can do to make sure the animal is safe. It is also important to figure out if the animal has an owner.
Call Denver animal shelters and rescues - The first step in finding a lost pet's owner is to call around to these various organizations. Many of them have information on lost pets so that you can find out if the animal has an owner searching for him or her.
Check with the lost pets line - For lost & found pets in the Denver metro area, simply dial 3-1-1. If you are outside the Denver area, but are inquiring about a found pet that may apply to the Denver area, you can get in touch with the 3-1-1 Call Center at (720) 913-1311.
Can you house the pet until the owner is found? - If you can house the pet, this will probably be the most comfortable option for the animal. But if you cannot, many of the same organizations with lost pet info can also take in those found pets. Call around to see which one is the best fit.
Place ads - If you call the local Denver rescues and shelters and come up empty, try placing ads to find the owners. Remember to require proof of ownership to make sure the animal is going home with the correct people.
What if no owner comes forward or the owner abandons the pet? - It is at this point that you need to decide what is best for the pet. Would your home be a good place for the animal and can you adequately provide care? If not, the Denver rescues and animal shelters can help. If at all possible, a no-kill shelter is the best choice to make sure there is no chance of euthanization. But if you hav eno choice and cannot keep the animal, it is safer to turn in the animal to shelter than to abandon him again.
Some Denver area shelters and rescues include:
Denver Dumb Friends League - ddfl.org - (303) 751-5772
Denver Municipal Animal Shelter - denvergov.org - 3-1-1 or (720) 913-1311
You might also try this popular facebook group:
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