Add a note about temperament, such as “shy, please don’t chase”, so well-meaning helpers do not scare your dog further away.
How to make a lost pet poster that works
People see your poster for two or three seconds, often from a moving car. Everything about the layout should serve that moment. LostPetPoster follows the advice shelters and pet-recovery volunteers give: one big word, one big photo, one big phone number.
The headline
LOST DOG or LOST CAT in the largest letters on the page, in a strong colour. Do not start with your pet’s name; strangers do not know it. If you are offering a reward, a single word REWARD under the headline is enough. Do not print the amount if you are worried about scams.
The photo
Use a recent, sharp, well-lit photo showing your pet’s whole body and colouring, not a cute close-up. If your pet has a distinctive marking, choose a photo that shows it. The poster crops the photo to fill the space, so pick one with your pet centred.
Details and last seen
Keep the description to a few short lines: breed and colour, sex and size, collar, and whether they are microchipped. Add where and when your pet was last seen. If your pet is shy or fearful, say so and ask people not to chase. Call or text instead.
Tear-off tabs
Tear-off tabs with your phone number let people take your number with them. Cut between the tabs with scissors before you put the poster up.
Where to put posters
Within a few blocks of where your pet went missing, at junctions, on community boards, in vets, pet shops, groomers, cafés and laundromats. Ask permission on private property, put posters at eye level for drivers, and protect them from rain with a clear sleeve. Take them down when your pet is home.
Share it online too
Download the image version and post it to local lost-and-found pet groups, neighbourhood apps and shelter pages. Share the last-seen location and a contact number. Your details and photo stay in this browser until you print or share the poster yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I put up lost dog posters?
At junctions near where your dog was lost, vets, pet shops, parks, shelters and community boards, at eye level for drivers.
Should I offer a reward?
It can help, but never pay anyone before your dog is safely back with you.
Should I list the microchip?
Yes. Mentioning it encourages finders to take the dog to a vet or shelter to be scanned.
Is LostPetPoster free?
Yes, with no sign-up or watermark.
Is my information private?
Your details and photo stay in this browser until you print or share them.