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Keep a completed wallet card with you at all times
Fill out a downloadable wallet card (PDF) to help keep important phone numbers with you, making urgent calls more convenient and quick. This file includes two wallet cards on one letter-size sheet of paper. Scroll down for hints and tips to research helpful phone numbers in your area.
PLEASE NOTE that each municipality has procedures for animal control, so phone numbers change when you cross boundaries, and unfortunately it is not always easy to discern when crossing into a different municipality. Carry phone numbers for all municipalities you travel frequently.
IMPORTANT: research your region to learn which animal control agencies and authorities you can trust to uphold compassionate animal welfare standards. While many municipalities are responsible and caring about the animal lives in their facilities, others are quick to end lives for convenience or budgetary reasons. Talk with shelter staff, local rescues, and veterinarians to learn how your municipality would handle a stray or sick animal or a neglectful, abusive owner.
Make wallet cards for family and friends
While you're at it, make extras to give to family and friends. Anyone who uses a cell phone probably will appreciate having these important numbers with them when they're on the go. Remember, when in doubt about an animal's condition or situation, always call the authorities. They are trained to cope with similar situations. And you don't have to give your name if you would rather not.
Tips and Hints for Filling in the Wallet Card
Animal Shelter:
There are a number of Web sites that allow you to search for animal shelters in the areas where you frequently travel, many also specifically identify no-kills shelters. In addition to the Web sites listed below you can also search online for: [your county] animal shelters.
- No-Kill Animal Shelter list from Animal Liberation Front
- No Kill Network
- Pets 911
- Petfinder Shelter lists by state
- ASPCA Shelter lists by state
- Animal Shelter site lists by state
Police:
Be sure to check your local phone book or online yellow pages for the non-emergency number to your local police station. This information is often found in the front of local phone directories and many directories also have a section specifically for government offices.
Animal Control:
Be sure to check your local phone book or online yellow pages for the number to your local animal control facility. This information is often found in the front of local phone directories, or may be available through your local animal shelter or veterinarian; many directories also have a section specifically for government offices. You can also search online for: [your county] animal control / animal care and control.
County Sheriff:
Be sure to check your local phone book or online yellow pages for the non-emergency number to your local sheriff. This information is often found in the front of local phone directories and many directories also have a section specifically for government offices.
Veterinarians:
Check with friends, co-workers and neighbors if you need a recommendation for a vet in a specific area. Web site resources include:
Remember, good information in hand can make a life-saving difference when you encounter an animal in distress. Always carry your completed Wallet Card. When driving, always carry a Roadside Rescue Kit in your vehicle.
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