How to Help Find a Lost Pet in the Hudson Valley

In recent weeks, many pets have been reported missing in the Hudson Valley. Some have been found, and others are still out there. I don't have any statistics but I would say it isn't that there are more missing pets but we are more aware and concerned because of the colder weather.

No matter how much you aren't an animal lover nobody wants to think about a pet or any animals suffering outdoors in the cold weather. The idea of any animal being exposed to the elements that aren't considered Hudson Valley Wildlife can cause even the hardest heart to stop for a moment. Tell me you can sit through an ASPCA ad with Sarah singing.

Dogs that Have Gone Missing Recently in the Hudson Valley

In the last few weeks, some of the stories have drawn major attention on Facebook and other social media. Palmilla a Tibetan Mastiff who was missing in Orange County but was finally brought in by Budha Dog Rescue & Recovery right before the storm. Currently, a group is trying to bring in Copper a 2-year-old bloodhound missing in Wappingers Falls.

A group in Lake Katrine New York is trying to find Reese who was last seen on December 28th but now there is reason to believe Reese may have been picked up and taken out of the area. One of the most remarkable stories over the last few weeks though has to be Takito's.

SEE Also: Fluffy Reunited With Family After 3 Months Missing

Takito was brought up from Texas as a rescue from Saving South Texas. He spent time with a foster in Connecticut and was in a car accident with a hopeful adopter on December 19th just south of the Village of New Patz in the area of Gardiner New York. During the accident recovery, Takito fled the scene and was on the run in the area until January 4th, 2024.

What to Do if You Spot a Lost Pet

So many people want to help when you find a lost animal but it is important that you train yourself in what to do and not do. The NYS DEC has great information on what you should do to help wildlife which is call them or one of the qualified animal rehabbers they work with in the field. Most times they will tell you not to interact with the animal at all.

With pets, it is hard not to get involved but sometimes that can make the situation worse for the animals and the people trying to find them. This is the reason why so many times they will say report a sighting but don't call or chase. We are fortunate that in our area we have several places to report lost pets and many groups who can successfully assist in getting a lost pet home.

SEE Also: Buddha Dog Rescue & Recovery Saved Dog in Warwick, New York

Often pets who are lost are in survival mode. The flight and fight instinct is strong. This is why it is always important to follow what the animal rescues are telling you to do. In the case of Takito who also happened to be deaf, they kept him feeling safe in an area and were able to get his foster to the area after a sighting. When she arrived Takito was still there, saw her and his leash, and came right to her.

As outsiders, we often don't realize what is happening behind the scenes that makes reuniting a pet with its people possible. It may seem as if nothing is being done but that can't be farther from the truth. Takito is doing well and was recently treated to a spa day thanks to Pooch Dog Spa in Gardiner, New York.

How Can You Help Find a Lost Pets

We all want to help when a pet goes missing but sometimes there is just nothing we can do except spread the word and share the social media posts. However, you can support the organizations that help find lost pets. Hudson Valley SPCA's, Lost Pets of the Hudosn Valley, HV LOST PETS, Buddha Dog Rescue & Recovery, and others like your local shelters or Pets Alive in Middletown. These places need donations and volunteers.

And remember if you do come across a pet in need who seems lost and willing to go with you. keep them safe, and notify your local police department or veterinarian. Also, be sure to spread the word so that the pet can be reunited with their family.

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