Advertising Your Pet

Word of mouth doesn't go very far. Make sure your pet is advertised in all of these places:

Classified Ads
Don't be afraid to use classified ads to advertise your pet - for many people the newspaper is the first place they look when getting a cat or dog. Be sure to mention your pet is desexed so that only genuine people looking for a family companion apply.

Club newsletters
If you're a member of a church, club or group, ask if you can include an advert in their newsletter or on their noticeboard.

Flyers
Put up flyers in your local supermarkets, vets and community centres. Email a flyer to all your friends and ask that they put it up on their work noticeboards. Some rescue groups will allow you to put a flyer up at their premises for free or a small donation.

Internet
The internet is a wonderful place to reach many, many people looking for a pet. Some free sites to list pets include Petlink, Dogmatch, Catmatch and OzPets.

Some free classifieds sites are Cracker and All Classifieds. There are also plenty of paid classifieds sites you can advertise on.

Some rescue groups may allow you to put an advert up on their websites for free or a small donation.

Things to Include on your Advertising and Flyers

• Describe the appearance, size, and age of the pet
• Include the pet's name and a good photograph
• Mention that the pet is desexed
• Describe his/her nature and appealing qualities
• Define any limitations the pet might have (eg, not good with cats or small children)
• Don't forget your phone number and the times you can be reached

Screening Callers

You have every right to screen all people looking to take your pet and to chose the person you think will make the best new owner. Don't let anyone rush or intimidate you.

If someone responds to your advert, you should screen them over the phone before introducing them to the animal - this will help you screen out anyone unsuitable early on.

Using the telephone screening form (dog | cat), start taking calls. To start, you might say: "This dog/cat is very special to me, and I am looking for just the right home for him/her. Would you mind if I asked you a few questions about yourself and your home?"

Let all applicants know you will be checking references and will need to speak to their vet (if they've had pets before).

Once you've chosen a family (or families) that you feel are good candidates make two appointments - one for them to see the dog, and one for you to see their home.

If this meeting goes well, ask them to fill in the Pet Adoption Application Form.

We advise you not to hand over your pet until you've seen their living arrangements. It's easy for people to tell you what you want to hear, rather than how it actually is - by seeing their home you will be able to better able to gauge their suitability as an owner.

Trust your instincts - if you have any concerns don't be afraid to discuss them, or just decide not to adopt to them.

To make a non-confrontational exit, tell them other people are also interested in meeting the pet and that you'll get back to them.

Continue to page 5 of this article - Once You've Found the Perfect Family