Placing a Pet or Stray
Whether you have a pet you believe you can no longer care for, found a stray, or know someone who is considering turning in their pet to a shelter, below is information on how to find a new, loving home for the animal or to find a strays owner.
More: Rehome My Dog, Cat or Other Pet (bestfriends.org)
Strays may be lost or abandoned pets:
If they growl or if you are fearful, call the local SPCA to come to safely get the animal. If the dog or cat appears friendly to determine if you want to try and take it in until the owner or a home can be found. Get him/her to a vet right away to get important vaccinations and keep the stray in a separate place from children or other animals until you know him/her better. Next steps?
- Place a found report with local shelters; some may require you to come in to file the report others will accept a report by phone
- Put an ad in the News Journal/DelawareOnline.com or other major newspaper under ‘Found’ ads – they are free for a period of time
- Put up posters in your area with a description of the pet
- Post them on Petfinder.com
- If someone claims the pet is theirs, get a copy of the vet records or some ID to be sure the pet is reunited with the true owner
Finding a home for a pet:
- Ask responsible relatives, friends and co-workers if they are willing to provide a loving home for your pet
- Place an ad in the local newspaper or newspapers to find a home for a pet – they are not expensive
- Screen possible adopters to rule out possible neglectful or abusive homes – ask questions, go to their home to visit, see how your pet interacts with them
- Place the pets photo and description on Petfinder.com
- Place flyers up at work, at your local vet, and pet stores
From chocolate to raisins, here’s what’s NOT to feed your pets even if they beg: Dangerous foods!
Affordable Pet Insurance
Pet CPR & First Aid Classes
Faithful Friends and the Delaware Safety Council have partnered to bring you Pet CPR & First Aid Classes! Learn how to come to the aid of your dog or cat. You love your pets and want to give them the healthiest life possible. When you take our 2.5 hour class you’ll learn how to best respond to an emergency situation if your dog or cat becomes ill or injured. Class size is limited. To register call (302) 276-0660. Click here for upcoming classes!
Home Safety Guide for Pet Owners
Click here to view the guide! The guide includes chapters with information on hazards for pets, food safety for pets, pet-proofing, and natural disaster preparation for pet owners.
Click here to view a security guide for pet owners! The guide includes information that is very useful for keeping your dog safe at home!
Travel Safety Guide for Pet Owners
Click here to view the guide! The guide includes chapters with information on traveling safely with your pet.