COMMUNITY: Message from Speedway Animal Rescue: Safety First for Fur Friends

MESSAGE FROM Speedway Animal Rescue

Did you know that Race Weekend is the busiest time of the year for Speedway Animal Rescue? We see more lost dogs this weekend than any other weekend of the year.

Following are a few tips to help keep your fur friends safe:

- Please do not leave your dog outside while unattended, especially overnight. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and people can easily spook animals resulting in an escape.

- Please keep your dog leashed this weekend. Even dogs that are accustomed to staying in the yard for play or just to relieve themselves may bolt from the yard if spooked.

- Designate a safe indoor area for your dog. Visitors may be unfamiliar with your dog's routine and could inadvertently leave doors or gates open. If possible, only use entrances/exits that are enclosed (i.e. a back door with a fenced yard) to prevent dogs from darting out.

- Be sure your dog's microchip information is up-to-date.

- Do not remove your dog's collar and/or tags.

- If your dog goes missing, immediately contact your microchip provider so that they can put an alert on the chip that your pet has been lost or stolen. File a lost pet report in the Speedway Pets Facebook group, contact Speedway Animal Rescue, and create a lost pet report at IndyLostPetAlert.com. Immediately set out dirty bedding and go door-to-door to look for your pup - many dogs do not stray far from home.

Every year we hear, "but my dog has never left the yard before!" Don't let this happen - some dogs never find their way back home. Focus on 'Safety First' to ensure both you and your pet enjoy this Racing Weekend!