From time to time lost and stray animals are handed in to the shelter. These animals are first checked for identification. This can be either collar, tag, tattoo or microchip. If the animal can be identified, attemps will be made to contact the owner and return the animal to them. If the owner can not be identified or contacted after reasonable enquiries, the animal will be held for a minimum of three (3) days when it will then become the property of the shelter.
If the animal carries no identification it will be held for a minimum of three (3) days when it will then become the property of the shelter.
If the animal is not claimed and becomes the property of the shelter it will be assessed. If it is deemed to be suitable for rehoming, every opportunity will be taken to find the animal a new home. Unfortunatley some animals are unable to be rehomed for a variety of reasons. Some are too old, some have behavioural problems and some are no longer fashionable. Animals that can not be rehomed are humanely destroyed.
Owners Responsibility
We can not hold an animal indefinitley waiting for an owner to come forward and claim it. We have had cases of people not even starting to enquire about their lost pet for more than a week while they "waited for it to come home". This is not responsible pet ownership.
The moment your pet goes missing you should contact your local dog control officer, the local police station and your local animal shelter. The sooner you start enquiring the greater the chance of being reunited with your lost companion.
Identification
In an attempt to help identify your pet and get it back quickly if it gets lost or strays you should use at least one of the following measures.
If you have lost an animal, please contact the Port Lincoln Animal Shelter - Boarding Kennels & Cattery, Happy Valley Rd, Port Lincoln SA. (08) 86823016. During the normal the hours of business: 10 am until 4 pm Monday to Friday.