6 Easter Safety Tips for Pets

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6 Easter Safety Tips for Pets

Easter is a fun time for humans of all ages and for pets! Keep these 6 Easter safety tips for pets in mind to make sure your pets are safe this Easter.

Keep lilies plants away from pets.


Lilies are known to be toxic to pets, especially cats. Even getting a little pollen on their fur required immediate medical attention. It’s best to not bring lilies into your home to avoid any accidental contact.

 

 

 

No chocolate for pets.


Chocolate is a tasty treat for humans but it is not good for pets. Keep all chocolate out of your pets reach and do not let them out in the yard until you have picked up any leftover eggs.

 

 

 

 

Pick up any leftover eggs from an egg hunt.


Small plastic eggs can be a choking hazard as well as their contents. Before you let your pet outside do a double check of your yard to make sure there were no missed eggs.

 

 

 

 

Keep trash cans secure.


Pets can be mischievous. Make sure your trash cans are secure so they don’t get into something they shouldn’t. Broken plastic eggs, basket filler, and discarded candy can all be dangerous for your pets to ingest.

 

 

 

 

Keep pets in a separate room.


Sometimes the best thing to do is keep your pets locked in their own room, away from the noise and tempting treats. Cats especially may prefer a quiet space to hide.

 

 

 

 

Dressing up your pets? Read their body language.


Some pets like being dressed up while others don’t. Watch your pets body language when attempting to put a festive costume on them. If you are dying your pets fur make sure to use a pet safe dye. Contact your local groomer for recommendations.

We hope you have a safe and fun Easter with your pets! Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

6 St. Patrick’s Day Safety Tips for Pets

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6 St. Patrick’s Day Safety Tips for Pets

St. Patrick’s Day is a day filled with celebrating, alcohol, and delicious treats for humans. But as with all holidays, there are things to keep in mind to keep your pets safe during the festivities. If you’re looking for safe ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? Keep your pet safe by following our tips!

Keep shamrock plants away from pets.


Shamrocks can cause stomach upset, drooling, and head shaking if small amounts of ingested. Large amounts can cause kidney damage and a decrease in the blood calcium level.

 

 

 

No alcoholic beverages for pets.


Alcohol can cause difficulty walking and upset stomach. Keep alcoholic drinks out of reach and if any spills clean it up right away.

 

 

 

 

Remove the raisins in Irish soda bread.


Irish soda bread is a popular St. Patrick’s Day treat but it contains raisins. Raisins are known to cause kidney failure. If you really want to serve Irish soda bread, make it yourself without the raisins.

 

 

 

 

Keep trash cans secure.


Pets can be mischievous. Make sure your trash cans are secure so they don’t get into something they shouldn’t. Glass bottles and sharp bottle caps in the trash can cause cuts.

 

 

 

 

Keep pets in a separate room.


Sometimes the best thing to do is keep your pets locked in their own room, away from the noise and tempting treats. Cats especially may prefer a quiet space to hide.

 

 

 

 

Dressing up your pets? Read their body language.


Some pets like being dressed up while others don’t. Watch your pets body language when attempting to put a festive costume on them. If you are dying your pets fur make sure to use a pet safe dye. Contact your local groomer for recommendations.

We hope you and your pets have a fun and safe St. Patrick’s Day!

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Windsor_Header

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Windsor

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What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Windsor_Header

Loosing a pet can be extremely scary, especially if you do not know where to start looking. There is a lot of information out there on how to find a missing pet, but I wanted to write something specific to Windsor, so you can just go down the checklist and get it done.

1. The Basics

For the first few minutes after a pet goes missing, you want to start with the basics.

  • Do a patrol of the area to see if you find any evidence of Tilly
  • Talk to the neighbors, especially anyone working outside, to see if they noticed Tilly going by
  • If Tilly is a dog, swing by her favorite places to walk or any place for playdates to see if she went there
  • Read up on How to Catch a Loose Dog for some tips if you do see her running free

2. Who to Contact First

You have done the basic search and turned up nothing. This is typically 15-30 minutes after you have realized Tilly is missing. Now it is time to reach out for help.

  • Larimer Humane Society – call to speak to animal control over the phone and give them a heads up that you just lost your pet. To submit a lost report you have to go into the shelter. The Windsor police state this is where they will take all lost dogs. “Windsor Police Department does not govern lost and found cats.”
    • (970) 226-3647
    • 3501 E 71st Street, Loveland, CO 80538
  • If Tilly has a microchip, contact the company to let them know she is missing and how to reach you, just in case your information is not up to date.
  • Contact any veterinarians, groomers, and pet supply stores in your immediate area (around a mile from where she went missing), in case someone picks her up and brings her in.

3. Social Media Time!

The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding a pet. Your friends and complete strangers are going to be happy to help you search the interwebs for any news of Tilly.

  • Post on all of your personal social media networks. Include a recent picture, where and when she went missing and any directions you want people to follow, such as how to contact you, not to chase Tilly, Tilly is afraid of men, etc. Specifically ask people to share the post. If you know any people in the animal world, such as your normal dog walker or groomer, ask them to share since they have such a large reach.
  • Post on these pages. There are many pages specifically dedicated to helping reunite missing pets with their people. Post on as many as you can, but start with Facebook. That is where we have had the most luck in recent years.
    • Lost and Found Pets of Northern Colorado – a Facebook group that is very active and easy to post in.
    • Lost & Found Pets of Windsor Colorado – another Facebook group. Less active but still a valuable place to get extra eyes.
    • Nextdoor – This is a newish system for people to coordinate with their neighborhoods on various subjects. When you post it can be seen by those directly in your area.
    • Post on Fort Collins Craigslist in the Community -> Pets section as well as Community -> Lost+Found. There is no charge to do so. Windsor doesn’t have it’s own section on Craigslist so you’ll want to post on the closest one – which is Fort Collins.
    • PetFBI – You have to fill out their online form, which gives you a flyer you can use and their website has a ton of helpful tips. Once you fill out the form, they will post it in their Facebook group.
    • PawBoost – You can pay for upgraded service, but they list your pet for free on Facebook and in their database.
    • LostMyDoggie – They post on Facebook but they also alert local shelters and rescues.
    • LostMyKitty – Same as LostMyDoggie, but for cats!
    • PetKey – A smaller page, but everything helps!
    • Northern Colorado Pet Lovers – A group ran by Wet Noses Pet Sitting. It’s a small group but another set of eyes always helps!
  • Head out and continue looking for Tilly. Make sure you are able to answer the phone if someone calls! Ask your neighbors to check their garages, sheds, and yards to make sure she is not hiding there.

Free stock photo of dog face

4. What is the Next Step?

If you are approaching evening, there are a few steps you can take, especially if Tilly is shy and still might be in the area.

  1. Double-check with any neighbors coming home to make sure they did not see her earlier in the day.
  2. Consider leaving your door open so Tilly can come in at night if she was lost from your home.
  3. If Tilly is a cat, place her litter box outside where she can smell it.

5. The Next Day

You have done all of the fast, easy options and Tilly has not been found. Now is time to dig in and spread the word that Tilly is missing.

  • File a lost pet report with Larimer Humane Society, if you have not already done so. Animals can travel surprisingly long ways and folks sometimes pick them up and take them to their local shelter, which may not be in Weld or Larimer County.
  • Post a lost pet ad in the Coloradoan and small local papers. It may seem outdated, but they are still read regularly.
  • Contact local breed rescues that relate to Tilly. For instance, if she is a Golden Retriever, contact the local Golden rescue. There are too many for me to list here, and they change regularly, so search online for one. You can also contact All Breed Rescue Network at (888) 440-6467. They keep a running list of breed rescues in the Colorado area. Sometimes breed rescues will be able to offer more suggestions or help specific to your breed.
  • Print off flyers from one of the sources you used yesterday. Post flyers in veterinary hospitals, groomers, trainers, pet supply stores, the dog park, and anywhere animal-related. Many local businesses also have community boards. Start with businesses near you and increase the distance the longer Tilly is missing. Posting flyers on mailboxes and phone poles is illegal, although many people do it.
  • Continue to update posts online. People will be wondering if you found Tilly and you want to keep them searching. Ask for help again and for people to keep sharing your posts.
  • Talk to people in the neighborhood where Tilly went missing. Offer a reward for any information leading to finding her.
  • If you hear of people spotting her, go to that area and search. Shy animals can be very hard to catch, especially during active times of the day when there are a lot of people around. If you believe she might be in the area, go out during quiet times in the evening or morning when she is more likely to appear. You can also look at renting a humane trap if you are sure she is there but cannot catch her.

 

Free stock photo of kitten animal

6. DO NOT Give Up Hope

The longer you search the more discouraged you become. Keep looking! Here are a few searches I have helped with over the years for people I know:

  • A small, very shy dog went missing. We tracked her to a neighborhood where kids had spotted her (we paid them to keep an eye out for her). After a few days, we were not able to find her until a kid came forward. A woman in the neighborhood had picked her up and had given her to a family member in Colorado Springs. Once confronted we were able to get her back.
  • A dog ran out of his front door. The neighbors a few houses down saw him, but not not the people at the end of the block. He vanished! They continued searching and found him late that night being walked by a nice couple who lived down the street. They had been leaving earlier when they saw him run by, so they put him in the garage and then left for a few hours. They had just returned home.
  • A woman’s dog had been missing for months. She sent out flyers to shelters across the country and he showed up here, in Fort Collins. Turned out a trucker had picked her up and driven her across 3 states before dropping her off at the local shelter!

We regularly hear stories of animals being reunited years after going missing due to their microchips. Keep that information up-to-date and continue your search!

7. Once you Find Your Pet

Congratulations! I am so excited for you and you must feel so relieved!

  • Take the moment and enjoy it. Do not scold Tilly, she is just happy to see you!
  • Plan a trip to the vet if your pet was gone for a while or appears to be injured.
  • Go back and take down those flyers, lost pet reports and postings online so that everyone knows you found your fur kid.
  • Return the favor and share information about missing pets for other people!

If you have a resource that is not listed, Please Let Us Know so we can get it added!

 

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Longmont_Header

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Longmont

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What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Longmont_Header

Loosing a pet can be extremely scary, especially if you do not know where to start looking. There is a lot of information out there on how to find a missing pet, but I wanted to write something specific to Longmont, so you can just go down the checklist and get it done.

1. The Basics

For the first few minutes after a pet goes missing, you want to start with the basics.

  • Do a patrol of the area to see if you find any evidence of Chloe
  • Talk to the neighbors, especially anyone working outside, to see if they noticed Chloe going by
  • If Chloe is a dog, swing by her favorite places to walk or any place for playdates to see if she went there
  • Read up on How to Catch a Loose Dog for some tips if you do see her running free

2. Who to Contact First

You have done the basic search and turned up nothing. This is typically 15-30 minutes after you have realized Chloe is missing. Now it is time to reach out for help.

  • Longmont Humane Society – Give them a call, as well as the Longmont Police Department Dispatch (303) 651-8500 to provide a description of the pet along with the number you can be reached at.
    • (303) 772-1232
    • 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont, CO 80501
  • Humane Society of Boulder Valley – If you pet has traveled north of Hwy 52 you pet may end up here.
    • (303) 442-4030
    • 2323 55th St, Boulder, CO 80301
  • If Chloe has a microchip, contact the company to let them know she is missing and how to reach you, just in case your information is not up to date.
  • Contact any veterinarians, groomers, and pet supply stores in your immediate area (around a mile from where she went missing), in case someone picks her up and brings her in.

3. Social Media Time!

The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding a pet. Your friends and complete strangers are going to be happy to help you search the interwebs for any news of Chloe.

  • Post on all of your personal social media networks. Include a recent picture, where and when she went missing and any directions you want people to follow, such as how to contact you, not to chase Chloe, Chloe is afraid of men, etc. Specifically ask people to share the post. If you know any people in the animal world, such as your normal dog walker or groomer, ask them to share since they have such a large reach.
  • Post on these pages. There are many pages specifically dedicated to helping reunite missing pets with their people. Post on as many as you can, but start with Facebook. That is where we have had the most luck in recent years.
    • Lost and Found Pets of Northern Colorado – a Facebook group that is very active and easy to post in.
    • Longmont Lost and Found Pets – another Facebook group. Less active but still a valuable place to get extra eyes.
    • Nextdoor – This is a newish system for people to coordinate with their neighborhoods on various subjects. When you post it can be seen by those directly in your area.
    • Post on Boulder Craigslist in the Community -> Pets section as well as Community -> Lost+Found. There is no charge to do so. Longmont doesn’t have it’s own section on Craigslist so you’ll want to post on the closest one – which is Boulder.
    • PetFBI – You have to fill out their online form, which gives you a flyer you can use and their website has a ton of helpful tips. Once you fill out the form, they will post it in their Facebook group.
    • PawBoost – You can pay for upgraded service, but they list your pet for free on Facebook and in their database.
    • LostMyDoggie – They post on Facebook but they also alert local shelters and rescues.
    • LostMyKitty – Same as LostMyDoggie, but for cats!
    • PetKey – A smaller page, but everything helps!
    • Northern Colorado Pet Lovers – A group ran by Wet Noses Pet Sitting. It’s a small group but another set of eyes always helps!
  • Head out and continue looking for Chloe. Make sure you are able to answer the phone if someone calls! Ask your neighbors to check their garages, sheds, and yards to make sure she is not hiding there.

Free photos of Cat

4. What is the Next Step?

If you are approaching evening, there are a few steps you can take, especially if Chloe is shy and still might be in the area.

  1. Double-check with any neighbors coming home to make sure they did not see her earlier in the day.
  2. Consider leaving your door open so Chloe can come in at night if she was lost from your home.
  3. If Chloe is a cat, place her litter box outside where she can smell it.

5. The Next Day

You have done all of the fast, easy options and Chloe has not been found. Now is time to dig in and spread the word that Chloe is missing.

  • File a lost pet report with Longmont Humane Society, if you have not already done so. Animals can travel surprisingly long ways and folks sometimes pick them up and take them to their local shelter, which may not be in Weld or Boulder County.
  • Post a lost pet ad in the Coloradoan and small local papers. It may seem outdated, but they are still read regularly.
  • Contact local breed rescues that relate to Chloe. For instance, if she is a Golden Retriever, contact the local Golden rescue. There are too many for me to list here, and they change regularly, so search online for one. You can also contact All Breed Rescue Network at (888) 440-6467. They keep a running list of breed rescues in the Colorado area. Sometimes breed rescues will be able to offer more suggestions or help specific to your breed.
  • Print off flyers from one of the sources you used yesterday. Post flyers in veterinary hospitals, groomers, trainers, pet supply stores, the dog park, and anywhere animal-related. Many local businesses also have community boards. Start with businesses near you and increase the distance the longer Chloe is missing. Posting flyers on mailboxes and phone poles is illegal, although many people do it.
  • Continue to update posts online. People will be wondering if you found Chloe and you want to keep them searching. Ask for help again and for people to keep sharing your posts.
  • Talk to people in the neighborhood where Chloe went missing. Offer a reward for any information leading to finding her.
  • If you hear of people spotting her, go to that area and search. Shy animals can be very hard to catch, especially during active times of the day when there are a lot of people around. If you believe she might be in the area, go out during quiet times in the evening or morning when she is more likely to appear. You can also look at renting a humane trap if you are sure she is there but cannot catch her.

Free photos of Dog

6. DO NOT Give Up Hope

The longer you search the more discouraged you become. Keep looking! Here are a few searches I have helped with over the years for people I know:

  • A small, very shy dog went missing. We tracked her to a neighborhood where kids had spotted her (we paid them to keep an eye out for her). After a few days, we were not able to find her until a kid came forward. A woman in the neighborhood had picked her up and had given her to a family member in Colorado Springs. Once confronted we were able to get her back.
  • A dog ran out of his front door. The neighbors a few houses down saw him, but not not the people at the end of the block. He vanished! They continued searching and found him late that night being walked by a nice couple who lived down the street. They had been leaving earlier when they saw him run by, so they put him in the garage and then left for a few hours. They had just returned home.
  • A woman’s dog had been missing for months. She sent out flyers to shelters across the country and he showed up here, in Fort Collins. Turned out a trucker had picked her up and driven her across 3 states before dropping her off at the local shelter!

We regularly hear stories of animals being reunited years after going missing due to their microchips. Keep that information up-to-date and continue your search!

7. Once you Find Your Pet

Congratulations! I am so excited for you and you must feel so relieved!

  • Take the moment and enjoy it. Do not scold Chloe, she is just happy to see you!
  • Plan a trip to the vet if your pet was gone for a while or appears to be injured.
  • Go back and take down those flyers, lost pet reports and postings online so that everyone knows you found your fur kid.
  • Return the favor and share information about missing pets for other people!

If you have a resource that is not listed, Please Let Us Know so we can get it added!

 

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Boulder_Header

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Boulder

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What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Boulder_Header

Loosing a pet can be extremely scary, especially if you do not know where to start looking. There is a lot of information out there on how to find a missing pet, but I wanted to write something specific to Boulder, so you can just go down the checklist and get it done.

1. The Basics

For the first few minutes after a pet goes missing, you want to start with the basics.

  • Do a patrol of the area to see if you find any evidence of Maggie
  • Talk to the neighbors, especially anyone working outside, to see if they noticed Maggie going by
  • If Maggie is a dog, swing by her favorite places to walk or any place for playdates to see if she went there
  • Read up on How to Catch a Loose Dog for some tips if you do see her running free

2. Who to Contact First

You have done the basic search and turned up nothing. This is typically 15-30 minutes after you have realized Maggie is missing. Now it is time to reach out for help.

  • Humane Society of Boulder Valley – There is a section dedicated to reporting missing pets and which pets have been found. If you feel one of them is yours you will need to call them. This is for pets found north of Hwy 52.
    • (303) 442-4030
    • 2323 55th St, Boulder, CO 80301
  • Longmont Humane Society – Also used by the Humane Society of Boulder Valley. This is for pets found south of Hwy 52.
    • (303) 772-1232
    • 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont, CO 80501
  • The Humane Society of Boulder Valley also recommends contacting these nearby shelters:
  • If Maggie has a microchip, contact the company to let them know she is missing and how to reach you, just in case your information is not up to date.
  • Contact any veterinarians, groomers, and pet supply stores in your immediate area (around a mile from where she went missing), in case someone picks her up and brings her in.

3. Social Media Time!

The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding a pet. Your friends and complete strangers are going to be happy to help you search the interwebs for any news of Maggie.

  • Post on all of your personal social media networks. Include a recent picture, where and when she went missing and any directions you want people to follow, such as how to contact you, not to chase Maggie, Maggie is afraid of men, etc. Specifically ask people to share the post. If you know any people in the animal world, such as your normal dog walker or groomer, ask them to share since they have such a large reach.
  • Post on these pages. There are many pages specifically dedicated to helping reunite missing pets with their people. Post on as many as you can, but start with Facebook. That is where we have had the most luck in recent years.
    • Lost and Found Pets of Northern Colorado – a Facebook group that is very active and easy to post in.
    • Boulder, CO – Lost Dogs, Cats & Pets – another Facebook group that is also very active.
    • Nextdoor – This is a newish system for people to coordinate with their neighborhoods on various subjects. When you post it can be seen by those directly in your area.
    • Post on Boulder Craigslist in the Community -> Pets section as well as Community -> Lost+Found. There is no charge to do so.
    • PetFBI – You have to fill out their online form, which gives you a flyer you can use and their website has a ton of helpful tips. Once you fill out the form, they will post it in their Facebook group.
    • PawBoost – You can pay for upgraded service, but they list your pet for free on Facebook and in their database.
    • LostMyDoggie – They post on Facebook but they also alert local shelters and rescues.
    • LostMyKitty – Same as LostMyDoggie, but for cats!
    • PetKey – A smaller page, but everything helps!
    • Northern Colorado Pet Lovers – A group ran by Wet Noses Pet Sitting. It’s a small group but another set of eyes always helps!
  • Head out and continue looking for Maggie. Make sure you are able to answer the phone if someone calls! Ask your neighbors to check their garages, sheds, and yards to make sure she is not hiding there.

adult chocolate Labrador retriever

4. What is the Next Step?

If you are approaching evening, there are a few steps you can take, especially if Maggie is shy and still might be in the area.

  1. Double-check with any neighbors coming home to make sure they did not see her earlier in the day.
  2. Consider leaving your door open so Maggie can come in at night if she was lost from your home.
  3. If Maggie is a cat, place her litter box outside where she can smell it.

5. The Next Day

You have done all of the fast, easy options and Maggie has not been found. Now is time to dig in and spread the word that Maggie is missing.

  • File a lost pet report with Humane Society of Boulder Valley, if you have not already done so. Consider also reaching out to the Aurora Animal Shelter, the Denver Animal Shelter, the Longmont Humane Society, or the Foothills Animal Shelter. Animals can travel surprisingly long ways and folks sometimes pick them up and take them to their local shelter, which may not be Boulder County.
  • Post a lost pet ad in the Coloradoan and small local papers. It may seem outdated, but they are still read regularly.
  • Contact local breed rescues that relate to Maggie. For instance, if she is a Golden Retriever, contact the local Golden rescue. There are too many for me to list here, and they change regularly, so search online for one. You can also contact All Breed Rescue Network at (888) 440-6467. They keep a running list of breed rescues in the Colorado area. Sometimes breed rescues will be able to offer more suggestions or help specific to your breed.
  • Print off flyers from one of the sources you used yesterday. Post flyers in veterinary hospitals, groomers, trainers, pet supply stores, the dog park, and anywhere animal-related. Many local businesses also have community boards. Start with businesses near you and increase the distance the longer Maggie is missing. Posting flyers on mailboxes and phone poles is illegal, although many people do it.
  • Continue to update posts online. People will be wondering if you found Maggie and you want to keep them searching. Ask for help again and for people to keep sharing your posts.
  • Talk to people in the neighborhood where Maggie went missing. Offer a reward for any information leading to finding her.
  • If you hear of people spotting her, go to that area and search. Shy animals can be very hard to catch, especially during active times of the day when there are a lot of people around. If you believe she might be in the area, go out during quiet times in the evening or morning when she is more likely to appear. You can also look at renting a humane trap if you are sure she is there but cannot catch her.

orange tabby cat on brown parquet floor

6. DO NOT Give Up Hope

The longer you search the more discouraged you become. Keep looking! Here are a few searches I have helped with over the years for people I know:

  • A small, very shy dog went missing. We tracked her to a neighborhood where kids had spotted her (we paid them to keep an eye out for her). After a few days, we were not able to find her until a kid came forward. A woman in the neighborhood had picked her up and had given her to a family member in Colorado Springs. Once confronted we were able to get her back.
  • A dog ran out of his front door. The neighbors a few houses down saw him, but not not the people at the end of the block. He vanished! They continued searching and found him late that night being walked by a nice couple who lived down the street. They had been leaving earlier when they saw him run by, so they put him in the garage and then left for a few hours. They had just returned home.
  • A woman’s dog had been missing for months. She sent out flyers to shelters across the country and he showed up here, in Fort Collins. Turned out a trucker had picked her up and driven her across 3 states before dropping her off at the local shelter!

We regularly hear stories of animals being reunited years after going missing due to their microchips. Keep that information up-to-date and continue your search!

7. Once you Find Your Pet

Congratulations! I am so excited for you and you must feel so relieved!

  • Take the moment and enjoy it. Do not scold Maggie, she is just happy to see you!
  • Plan a trip to the vet if your pet was gone for a while or appears to be injured.
  • Go back and take down those flyers, lost pet reports and postings online so that everyone knows you found your fur kid.
  • Return the favor and share information about missing pets for other people!

 

If you have a resource that is not listed, Please Let Us Know so we can get it added!

 

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Loveland

What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Loveland

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What To Do If Your Pet Goes Missing in Loveland

Loosing a pet can be extremely scary, especially if you do not know where to start looking. There is a lot of information out there on how to find a missing pet, but I wanted to write something specific to Loveland, so you can just go down the checklist and get it done.

1. The Basics

For the first few minutes after a pet goes missing, you want to start with the basics.

  • Do a patrol of the area to see if you find any evidence of Sasha
  • Talk to the neighbors, especially anyone working outside, to see if they noticed Sasha going by
  • If Sasha is a dog, swing by her favorite places to walk or any place for playdates to see if she went there
  • Read up on How to Catch a Loose Dog for some tips if you do see her running free

2. Who to Contact First

You have done the basic search and turned up nothing. This is typically 15-30 minutes after you have realized Sasha is missing. Now it is time to reach out for help.

  • Larimer Humane Society – call to speak to animal control over the phone and give them a heads up that you just lost your pet. To submit a lost report you have to go into the shelter.
    • (970) 226-3647
    • 3501 E 71st Street, Loveland, CO 80538
  • If Sasha has a microchip, contact the company to let them know she is missing and how to reach you, just in case your information is not up to date.
  • Contact any veterinarians, groomers, and pet supply stores in your immediate area (around a mile from where she went missing), in case someone picks her up and brings her in.

3. Social Media Time!

The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding a pet. Your friends and complete strangers are going to be happy to help you search the interwebs for any news of Sasha.

  • Post on all of your personal social media networks. Include a recent picture, where and when she went missing and any directions you want people to follow, such as how to contact you, not to chase Sasha, Sasha is afraid of men, etc. Specifically ask people to share the post. If you know any people in the animal world, such as your normal dog walker or groomer, ask them to share since they have such a large reach.
  • Post on these pages. There are many pages specifically dedicated to helping reunite missing pets with their people. Post on as many as you can, but start with Facebook. That is where we have had the most luck in recent years.
    • Lost and Found Pets of Northern Colorado – a Facebook group that is very active and easy to post in.
    • Nextdoor – This is a newish system for people to coordinate with their neighborhoods on various subjects. When you post it can be seen by those directly in your area.
    • Post on Fort Collins Craigslist in the Community -> Pets section as well as Community -> Lost+Found. There is no charge to do so.
    • PetFBI – You have to fill out their online form, which gives you a flyer you can use and their website has a ton of helpful tips. Once you fill out the form, they will post it in their Facebook group.
    • PawBoost – You can pay for upgraded service, but they list your pet for free on Facebook and in their database.
    • LostMyDoggie – They post on Facebook but they also alert local shelters and rescues.
    • LostMyKitty – Same as LostMyDoggie, but for cats!
    • PetKey – A smaller page, but everything helps!
    • Northern Colorado Pet Lovers – A group ran by Wet Noses Pet Sitting. It’s a small group but another set of eyes always helps!
  • Head out and continue looking for Sasha. Make sure you are able to answer the phone if someone calls! Ask your neighbors to check their garages, sheds, and yards to make sure she is not hiding there.

 

Free photos of Cat

4. What is the Next Step?

If you are approaching evening, there are a few steps you can take, especially if Sasha is shy and still might be in the area.

  1. Double-check with any neighbors coming home to make sure they did not see her earlier in the day.
  2. Consider leaving your door open so Sasha can come in at night if she was lost from your home.
  3. If Sasha is a cat, place her litter box outside where she can smell it.

5. The Next Day

You have done all of the fast, easy options and Sasha has not been found. Now is time to dig in and spread the word that Sasha is missing.

  • File a lost pet report with Larimer Humane Society, if you have not already done so. Consider also reaching out to the Humane Society of Weld County, the Cheyenne Animal Shelter, the Longmont Humane Society, or the Humane Society of Boulder Valley. Animals can travel surprisingly long ways and folks sometimes pick them up and take them to their local shelter, which may not be Larimer County.
  • Post a lost pet ad in the Coloradoan and small local papers. It may seem outdated, but they are still read regularly.
  • Contact local breed rescues that relate to Sasha. For instance, if she is a Golden Retriever, contact the local Golden rescue. There are too many for me to list here, and they change regularly, so search online for one. You can also contact All Breed Rescue Network at (888) 440-6467. They keep a running list of breed rescues in the Colorado area. Sometimes breed rescues will be able to offer more suggestions or help specific to your breed.
  • Print off flyers from one of the sources you used yesterday. Post flyers in veterinary hospitals, groomers, trainers, pet supply stores, the dog park, and anywhere animal-related. Many local businesses also have community boards. Start with businesses near you and increase the distance the longer Sasha is missing. Posting flyers on mailboxes and phone poles is illegal, although many people do it.
  • Continue to update posts online. People will be wondering if you found Sasha and you want to keep them searching. Ask for help again and for people to keep sharing your posts.
  • Talk to people in the neighborhood where Sasha went missing. Offer a reward for any information leading to finding her.
  • If you hear of people spotting her, go to that area and search. Shy animals can be very hard to catch, especially during active times of the day when there are a lot of people around. If you believe she might be in the area, go out during quiet times in the evening or morning when she is more likely to appear. You can also look at renting a humane trap if you are sure she is there but cannot catch her.

Free photos of Dog

6. DO NOT Give Up Hope

The longer you search the more discouraged you become. Keep looking! Here are a few searches I have helped with over the years for people I know:

  • A small, very shy dog went missing. We tracked her to a neighborhood where kids had spotted her (we paid them to keep an eye out for her). After a few days, we were not able to find her until a kid came forward. A woman in the neighborhood had picked her up and had given her to a family member in Colorado Springs. Once confronted we were able to get her back.
  • A dog ran out of his front door. The neighbors a few houses down saw him, but not not the people at the end of the block. He vanished! They continued searching and found him late that night being walked by a nice couple who lived down the street. They had been leaving earlier when they saw him run by, so they put him in the garage and then left for a few hours. They had just returned home.
  • A woman’s dog had been missing for months. She sent out flyers to shelters across the country and he showed up here, in Fort Collins. Turned out a trucker had picked her up and driven her across 3 states before dropping her off at the local shelter!

We regularly hear stories of animals being reunited years after going missing due to their microchips. Keep that information up-to-date and continue your search!

7. Once you Find Your Pet

Congratulations! I am so excited for you and you must feel so relieved!

  • Take the moment and enjoy it. Do not scold Sasha, she is just happy to see you!
  • Plan a trip to the vet if your pet was gone for a while or appears to be injured.
  • Go back and take down those flyers, lost pet reports and postings online so that everyone knows you found your fur kid.
  • Return the favor and share information about missing pets for other people!

How to Find a Missing Pet_Lamier County Infographic

If you have a resource that is not listed, Please Let Us Know so we can get it added!

 

Can Dogs Eat Grapes_Header

Can Dogs Eat Grapes?

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Can Dogs Eat Grapes_Header

Can Dogs Eat Grapes?

NO. Under no circumstances should grapes be given to your dog. We know that grapes are highly toxic to dogs but we’re still not sure why. Grape toxicity isn’t only linked to fresh grapes but also includes raisins, sultanas, and some currants. But for the purpose of this article we’ll be largely referencing grapes and raisins.

Why are grapes toxic to dogs?

Grapes might seem like they would make a great snack but even one grape can be fatal. We’re not sure why grapes are so toxic to dogs. Some suspect it may be due to a mycotoxin or due to an acid within the grapes but we still can’t say for certain.

What happens then to make them so toxic? Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Which, if untreated will lead to death. If your dog ingests even a single grape, seeking treatment as soon as you can is crucial for your dogs best chances of survival.

person holding grapes

c: Maja Petric

What do I do if my dog eats a grape?

If your dog has ingested a grape or raisins, seek treatment immediately and contact your veterinarian. It does not matter if the grapes were seedless, seeded, store-bought, or homegrown. Nor does the color of the grape matter. All grapes and raisins are toxic.

Remember, the Pet Poison Helpline is available 24/7 at 855-764-7661.

Symptoms of poisoning

Do not wait if you think your dog has been poisoned by grapes. A dog that has ingested grapes or raisins may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration

Your dog does not need to be exhibiting symptoms before you take them in for treatment. A veterinarian will evaluate them and begin treatment if necessary.

Is it limited to just grapes?

No. Raisins, sultanas, and some currants are all forms of grapes. This extends itself to derivatives of grapes such as grape juice, nut mixes that include raisins, and breads and sweets containing raisins. It continues into raisin juice or raisin paste (which I had never heard of before writing this article). Wine may also be a culprit but you should never give your dog any form of alcohol.

Can Dogs Eat Grapes?

NO. Your dog should never ingest grapes or any grape derivatives as it can cause kidney failure. Even one grape is enough to be toxic for smaller dogs. If you suspect or know your dog has gotten into grapes seek veterinary care immediately.

Where are Emergency Vet Clinics in Boulder?

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Where are Emergency Vet Clinics in Boulder?_Header

Where are Emergency Vet Clinics in Boulder?

Considering getting a pet but want to know where the Boulder, Colorado emergency vet clinics are? Hopefully, you never have the need for an emergency veterinary clinic, but often accidents and emergencies happen during the hours when your normal clinic is closed, or busy. First off, knowing the times when you might need an emergency clinic is important. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Profound weakness or collapse
  • Seizures
  • Obvious signs of trauma
  • Protracted vomiting/diarrhea (especially if bloody)
  • Signs of pain or extreme restlessness and vocalization
  • Ingestion of a toxin
  • Hindquarter paralysis
  • Abnormal urination

Emergency veterinary clinics in the Boulder, Colorado area

Boulder Emergency Pet Clinic

  • 1658 30th St, Boulder, CO  80301
  • (303) 440-7722
  • 24/7 emergency care

 

CASE – Colorado Animal Specialty & Emergency

  • 2972 Iris Ave, Boulder, CO  80301
  • (303) 545-2273
  • 24/7 emergency care

 

 

Boulder Road Veterinary Specialists

  • 2000 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026
  • (720) 699-7766
  • 24/7 emergency care
  • Speciality care

 

Always be prepared in case of an emergency

It is important to know your closest Boulder, Colorado emergency vet clinic, and the one your veterinarian prefers. Program their information into your phone and call them when needed!

Also, never leave your pets unattended for extended periods of time. Even the most relaxed pet can get into mischief if they are bored. Hire a pet sitter when you’re going out of town or on an extra-long day trip. We’d love to set you up with one of our awesome Wet Noses Pet Sitters to help ensure that your pet is safe. Just give us a call any time you need it!

Pet Safety Tips for Valentine's Day_Header

Pet Safety Tips for Valentine’s Day 2022

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Pet Safety Tips for Valentine's Day_Header

Pet Safety Tips for Valentine’s Day 2022

Valentine’s Day is the romantic holiday of the year but it’s filled with dangerous things for our pets. The last thing you need is an emergency trip to the vet. Here are our pet safety tips for Valentine’s Day.

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Keep candles out of reach.

Candles can cause burnt paws, missing fur, or scorched whiskers. As tempting as it might be to decorate with loads of candles our pets don’t understand what fire is and that they can hurt themselves. If you want to light a bunch of candles to set the mood, consider using battery powered candles. If you must use real candles make sure your pet is confined to an area where there are no lit candles.

Chocolate is a no no.

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is highly toxic to our pets. Don’t share any with your pets and if you drop any, make sure to pick it up right away. If you want to share some of those chocolate covered strawberries with your pet, consider this dog-friendly carob recipe from dogcancerblog.com. If you plan on substituting the almond butter for peanut butter make sure it does not contain any xylitol. As a general rule, candy should be kept away from pets.

Keep flowers out of reach.

Many flowers are toxic to pets. Those that aren’t toxic may have thorns, such as roses. Roses tend to only cause an upset tummy if only the flower part in ingested. Thorns can cause much more damage. Keep flowers out of reach or consider telling your date ahead of time that you do not want flowers.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1633686155785-699da46b7d93?ixlib=rb-1.2.1&ixid=MnwxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8&auto=format&fit=crop&w=1170&q=80

Stuffed animals can be a choking hazard.

Are you lucky enough to get one of those Costco bears? First, congratulations! Secondly, stuffing inside of stuffed animal can pose a choking hazard if your pet mistakes it for one of their toys. Additionally, some stuffed animals have small, hard parts such as the nose that if chewed off could also turn into a choking hazard.

Careful with alcohol.

Dogs and cats are curious and if left unattended, that half drunk cocktail might end up in your pets mouth. Don’t leave out half drunk drinks or bottles that are open.

Throw away all packaging.

Valentine’s Day is a day for gifts. Dispose of all packaging in a bin your pet cannot get into. Small plastic pieces can become a choking hazard. If you get balloons as part of your gift put them into a room you can keep your pet out of. Balloon strings, ribbons, and tape are all ribbon-like materials that can easily get tangled in your pets intestines.

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What are your tips for keeping your pets safe on Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments.

Have a safe and fun Valentine’s Day!

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving Header

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving

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Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving Header

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time of abundance but should your pet get a plate as well? We’ve put together a list of foods to keep your pets away from this Thanksgiving to save you a Thanksgiving trip to the emergency vet.

Stuffing

Stuffing often contains onions and garlic which are toxic to pets. If your pet gets into a teeny, tiny amount of stuffing that’s okay but you shouldn’t be giving them a plateful.

Ham & Pork Products

These products tend to be very fatty which is hard on their digestive tracks.

Poultry & Bones

You want to keep any cooked bones away from pets, especially chicken bones. Chicken bones can splinter and are harder to digest which can lead to tearing of the esophagus, intestine, or stomach as well as blockages that require veterinary care.

Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes by themselves aren’t bad, it’s the things we add to mashed potatoes that make them unhealthy. Butter, dairy products, green onions, pepper, can give your pet quite a stomach ache. If you’re looking for a great made-for-humans mashed potato recipe, this is one of my favorites from Taste of Lizzy T.

Grapes & Raisins

While less common at Thanksgiving tables, grapes and raisins may be found in things – like stuffing. Or they may be served in a bowl of nuts as a snack. Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to cats and dogs and can cause kidney failure.

Nuts

On of the foods to keep your pets away from this Thanksgiving is nuts. Most nuts are extremely high in fat which can cause digestive issues.

Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most common things pet parents are aware their their furbabies shouldn’t have. But remember, the darker the chocolate the more toxic it is due to the higher cocoa content.

Bread Dough & Yeast

Bread dough and yeast should be avoided due to the alcohol content produced by the yeast, especially in uncooked dough. Uncooked dough is also not safe due to the yeast being active and continuing to rise. Dough can expand well over three times the size it starts out at if conditions are right. It would be like you swallowing a loaf of bread whole!

Gravy

Gravy has a lot of toxic ingredients (garlic and onions) in addition to the high fat content. This makes it harder for your pet to digest and gives them tummy troubles.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet This Thanksgiving Infographic

Want to make your pet a Thanksgiving plate still?

Including your pet in the festivities can be fun but we want to make sure our pets are safe. Here is a list of traditional Thanksgiving foods (with some tweaks) so your pet can get their own plate.

  • Canned, plain pumpkin – not pumpkin pie filling;
  • Sweet potato dog chews – you can either make these yourself or purchase them from your local pet store;
  • Turkey or Pork wet pet food – wet food comes in a variety of flavors. Consider picking up one that is turkey or pork;
  • Carob treats – carob is the pet-safe version of chocolate. You can find a variety of carob treats at your local pet store