What do I do when I find a stray?

 Thank you for stepping forward and caring for this vulnerable animal! We hope this guide will help you find the animal's owners.

• Call your local animal control. In Peoria County, that would be PAWS 309-672-2440. Tazewell County Animal Control is 477-2270. If it is after hours, or on the weekend, call your police department. Why? This animal may belong to someone who is desperately looking for it. The first place they will call is Animal Control. Legally, an owner search must be conducted for 72 hours before Foster Pet Outreach can begin to help an animal. Even well loved animals can look pretty rough after a few days on the run. Tags can be lost, and fur may become dirty and matted. Previous health conditions can account for skinny or malnourished appearance. Animal Control has the legal power to determine neglect or abuse. What will happen when you call? Tell them you have found an animal and would like to know if anyone is searching for it. They will ask if you want them to come pick it up. You may keep this animal if you choose to, unless, of course, an owner is found. Remember, Animal Control also wants what is best for this living being.
• Be sure to keep this animal separate from your pets and children. With an unknown temperament and health status, you shouldn't take any chances. Dispose of any feces in a plastic baggie in case of parasites. Be sure to wash your hands after contact.
• Ask all your neighbors if they know this animal.
• Check the paper for lost ads.
• Post flyers everywhere in your neighborhood. Include a photo of the animal. Put flyers in stores, on signposts, vet offices, and grooming salons.
• Place a found ad in your local paper. They are very inexpensive. Ask any callers to be able to produce some form of ownership, like a photograph, or identifying vet record.
• Stray cats often belong to a feral cat colony. For help with a feral cat colony, contact Sterile Feral Foundation at 309-663-4406.