Lollypop Farm offers free tools, education, and community support to help reunite pets and people

The summer months are full of fun – backyard barbecues, beach days, fireworks, and family gatherings. But amid the excitement and noise, many pets face increased stress, fear, and anxiety, which can lead to them becoming lost. July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, and Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, plays a vital role in helping people stay connected with their beloved animals. Each year, Lollypop Farm reunites hundreds of lost pets with their owners and provides the community with essential resources, education, and support to prevent pet loss before it happens. From microchipping services to expert guidance on pet safety during high-risk times such as fireworks season, Lollypop Farm is a trusted partner in keeping pets safe and families whole.

Report a lost pet
Visit https://www.lollypop.org/resources/lost-and-found/ to submit a Lost Pet Report. Submit a detailed report (name, description, photo, microchip info, date, and location lost) through the Lost Pet Report form. This information will prove vital should your pet find its way to Lollypop Farm. Submitting a form will also automatically share your pet’s information with the Lollypop Farm team and add it to their public lost and found listings.

Stray pet listings
Lollypop Farm post all stray pets brought in on thier Stray Pets page (https://www.lollypop.org/animals/lost-and-found/). Be sure to check frequently, as this page is updated regularly.

Found a pet?
Lollypop Farm also provides support for those who have found a lost pet, including the Found Pet Report located on Lollypop Farm’s website. If you find a pet, their team will work with you to identify the next steps.
•Check for identification: collar tags, license plates, microchips (Lollypop scans for free)
•File a Found Pet Report and post on Lollypop Spotters.
•Call municipal or animal control agencies – New York law requires reporting found animals.
•Put up “FOUND DOG/CAT” signs with photos, but don’t advertise every detail to prevent fraud. Lollypop Farm recommends keeping one unique trait private to verify ownership.
•Browse “LOST” notices and respond carefully to reunite rightful owners.

Join the search with Lollypop Spotters
Social media is a powerful tool for reuniting pets with their families. Lollypop Spotters is a Facebook community of over 17,000 members in the Rochester area who share lost and found pet alerts to broaden the search.
When you submit a lost or found pet report, your post will be shared with the Lollypop Spotters Facebook group. With thousands of active community members on the lookout, it greatly increases the chances of a reunion.
Additionally, sharing your post in neighborhood groups, community pages, and on your own social media channels are effective strategies to engage with those around you. Furthermore, flyers may also be an effective tool, especially when placed in high-traffic areas near where the pet was lost or where it was found.

Tips to prevent your pet from getting lost
The best way to avoid the heartbreak of a lost pet is to take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some essential tips:
•Check the chip: Microchips are one of the most effective ways to reunite lost pets with their families, but they’re only as good as the information attached to them. Ensure your contact information is up to date, especially if you move or change your phone number.
•Secure fencing: Inspect your yard for any weak points in the fencing. Look for loose boards, digging spots, or places your pet could squeeze through or jump over.
•Close the Escape Routes: Keep an eye on doors and windows, especially during parties or noisy events like fireworks shows. Double-check that windows are latched and screens are secure.
•Protect your entryway: Hosting guests? Let them know if you have a pet who may try to escape. A baby gate at entry points or a “pet inside” sign can help prevent a quick dash outside.
•Practice recall: Training your pet to come when called can make all the difference if they ever get loose. Use positive reinforcement and practice regularly.
•Keep the collar on: Make sure your pet wears a collar with a current ID tag that includes your name and/or phone number. If someone finds your pet, this makes it much easier for them to contact you directly.
Provided information