When your cat or dog is lost, it can be very traumatic, both for you and your pet. If you are facing this situation, don't panic, but act immediately. Go immediately to the Town of Islip Animal Shelter. You'll increase your chances if your pet is properly licensed.

New York State law requires that all cats and dogs be licensed. This is also the best means of recovering your lost pet. Pet licenses are available at the Town of Islip Animal Shelter

Immediately call area shelters and search them in person to look for your pet. Be aware that your pet may have been picked up by a Good Samaritan and taken to a shelter in another jurisdiction. Ask about what type of proof of ownership, Rabies vaccination and licensing records you should bring in order to claim your pet. Bring pictures of your pet. Animal shelters make every reasonable effort to identify lost pets. When you come to the shelter, look for your pet. File a lost report and attach a clear photograph.

It is your responsibility to make follow up visits to shelters to look for your pet. No one knows your pet better than you do. Tags and collars can be lost, and pets can get dirty and matted during their odyssey. Have family members take turns going back to the shelter every few days. The Town of Islip Animal Shelter is equipped to hold stray animals only for the stray hold period. When the time is up, the stray animal is considered abandoned, and it may be adopted to a new home, transferred to a rescue group or legally claimed by the person who rescued it.

Post "lost pet" flyers with a photo and description of your pet. Good places to post: animal shelters, parks, groomers, playgrounds, vet clinics, pet stores, convenience stores, grocery stores, schools, fire and police stations and at church, synagogue and community bulletin boards. Use big, bold letters. Include your phone number and neighborhood. DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS.

Think like your dog would think. What may interest your dog? A nearby park? What would draw him? For cats, don't forget to look up into trees. Do not forget to search your own property thoroughly. Cats can crawl under sheds very easily. Determine when and where your pet was last seen. In searching the area, bring your pet's favorite squeaky toy and a box of treats. Squeak the toy and rattle the box while calling your pet. Be quiet, and still, listen for a response from your pet. Talk with everyone, leave flyers or notes at nearby homes. Talk with your mail carrier, the crossing guard, the school bus driver, anyone who has business in your area. Ask them to keep an eye out for your pet.
Don't cut corners and don't give up too soon.