Stray Animals

Ollie's Legacy cannot accept stray animals directly from the public due to legislation set by the Victorian Government. Any strays we take in have been transferred to us via the pound.  If you have found what appears to be a stray animal, take it to the nearest pound. 

While you may think the animal is abandoned or not cared for it may be someone’s pet they are looking for. The pound is the FIRST place a distraught owner will look. 

In Victoria, the animal will be placed on an 8-day stray hold to give the owner time to find them, and if it is chipped and/or registered the owner will be contacted.

• Double check all over your house and garden
• Check if your neighbours have seen your pet and would they mind keeping their eyes out for them
• Search within a 20km radius of your home both on foot and in a car
• Take squeaky toys and treats to help lure them out 
• Don't forget to take a collar/lead or cat carrier to secure them if your mission is successful.
• Get the word out to friends, family and the community. Facebook is ideal for this- find your local Lost and Found pages and ask your network to share your posts
• Distribute fliers and posters. If you need a template, try: Simple Poster
• Contact your local council, shelters, pounds and vet clinics and provide them with a detailed description of your pet as well as your contact details. 
• Ensure your pet's microchip details are correct by contacting your pet’s registered microchip company. 
• Continue the search and don't lose hope!

When you come across a lost animal, it’s important not to assume that they don’t have a loving family searching for them. Always keep in mind that someone may have been searching for the animal. 

• If the animal is friendly check for a tag or identification on their collar
• Check if the pet is known to your neighbours 
• Take a photo of the animal and use your social media network and lost and found pages to spread the word
• If the animal is showing signs of aggression contact your local council immediately and DO NOT approach it
• If the animal allows you to handle them, secure them either on a lead or in a cat carrier. Take it to the nearest vet or pound to be scanned for a microchip. If they are microchipped, the owners can be contacted and reunited with their pet quickly
• You can usually leave your contact details with the pound and ask they contact you if the owner doesn't come forward. If the owner doesn't come forward in the mandatory 8 day hold period, you may be able to adopt the animal if you are in the position to do so.