Tips for Posting Lost and Found Pet Flyers

Posting signs and distributing flyers is one of the most effective methods of getting the word out about a lost or found pet. Follow our tips to be sure you are designing and distributing your flyers effectively.

Where and How to Post Your Flyers ​

• Use the Pet FBI flyer template to create and download your flyer.
• Print as many 8 ½” by 11” flyers as practical. If you cannot print them in color, then print your flyers on colored paper. Yellow is visible from a distance and likely to attract more attention than plain white paper.
• Post your flyers on bulletin boards in vets’ offices, pet supply stores, laundromats, etc.
• Distribute flyers throughout your neighborhood. Note: It is illegal to place flyers in US mailboxes.

Create at least five to ten large, brightly colored signs to post at major intersections. To create your signs: ​

• Purchase five to ten large pieces of poster board in bright neon colors.
• Print one 8.5 x 11 picture of the pet for each sign.
• Insert your picture into a plastic page protector and tape to the poster board with clear packing tape. If you don’t have a page protector, cover the picture completely with clear packing tape to protect it from the weather.
• Use a black indelible marker to write on the poster board. Keep it brief. For example, write LOST DOG above the picture and your phone number under the picture.
• You can waterproof your signs by covering them with clear packing tape.
• In addition to posting at major intersections near where the pet was missing or found, put a sign in your yard so it can be seen easily by passers-by. Old campaign signs make great backing for lost pet signs.
• Always be sure you have permission from the landowner before placing a sign, including city and county property.

From Lost Dogs of America. Used with permission.

CAUTION: Posting signs and flyers on utility poles is unsafe and, in many cases, illegal. Poles are the private property of the utility company, telecommunication company, or municipality that owns them. Staples, nails, and tape on poles are a danger to the workers who have to climb the poles.

TIP: Be sure to check our national database of lost and found pets. Your pet may already be listed. You can also post your own lost or found pet report.

For many more helpful suggestions, please see our specialized action plan pages. (See sidebar)

Whether or Not To Offer a Reward ​

There is a lot of controversy about this! Learn about the pros and cons on our page The "REWARD!" Debate

Create Your Flyer!