When most people think of "lost and found" they think of simple things - gloves, hats or wallets. When you lose or find a pet the feelings are very different. Your concern is centered on the needs of another living creature that depends on someone to provide its' most basic necessities of food and shelter. As much as you depend on your pet, they depend on you, or anyone else willing to offer care.

Offering a reward may sooth the psyche during the search for a lost pet, however, there appears to be little evidence that rewards make a difference in a lost pet's return.

If you should decide to offer a reward for the redemption of your lost pet and are fortunate to have found your pet yourself or have encountered a Samaritan who refuses a reward payment, you should consider donating the "reward" money to a local animal welfare organization. The role they play in supporting lost and found pet efforts within your community is vital and requires thousands of dollars each year in operating expense.