LOST DOG TOOLKIT
If your greyhound gets loose, we always ask that you contact Greyhounds Only immediately at 847-421-9828. We have a lot of experience with lost greyhounds and can help you get yours home.
However, there are many things YOU can do, and you can start right away. This will help move things along, and it will help US help YOU!
Below, you will find helpful information for a lost greyhound situation. First, there are a number of things you can do and people you can contact right away. Next, you should hit the streets to post flyers and talk to people and businesses. Last, we give information to help you in the flyering and searching process.
Steps you can immediately take if your greyhound GETS loose:
☑ Contact Greyhounds Only: 847-421-9828.
☑ Contact local police. Police in some communities can be very helpful in lost dog cases. Inform them that you have lost your greyhound and you will be posting flyers in the area.
☑ Contact local and nearby animal control / humane societies / animal shelters / animal hospitals.
☑ Make 100-500 copies of the Lost Dog Flyer on neon colored paper. Make sure the phone number on the flyer is one that can be reached 24/7.
☑ Charge your cell phone and carry it with you. Make sure your outgoing message provides information and instructions in case you miss the call.
☑ If you live near a highway, contact the local state highway department.
☑ Print a map of the area and make copies for volunteers. Be prepared to divide the area into segments for groups of volunteers to post flyers and talk to people and businesses.
☑ Submit your greyhound’s information to Lost Dogs Illinois: Facebook or Web.
☑ Ask the post office if they will post the information and communicate to mail carriers to be on the lookout.
☑ Ask local businesses and gas stations to post flyers.
☑ Ask local schools to make an announcement and post flyers.
☑ Ask local newspapers to print a news story.
Lost Dog Toolkit for when you are out searching/posting flyers:
☑ Bring a leash and collar/harness for when the dog is found.
☑ Bring greyhounds.
☑ Bring squawkers.
☑ Keep smelly treats in your pockets. Canned cat food and fast food can work well.
☑ Bring a high powered flashlight or spotlight, plus extra batteries.
☑ Bring copies of your map to record what areas have been covered, and to give to volunteers.
☑ Bring flyers to hand out to people in the area.
☑ Tape a lost dog flyer on the back window of your vehicle.
☑ When posting flyers, bring a staple gun, extra staples, and tape. Be sure to staple/tape all corners of the flyer. Only staple to poles (not to trees). If bad weather is forecasted, you may place flyers in plastic protectors.
☑ Be prepared for weather – bring a change of socks and shoes, outerwear, etc.