Post signs in the area where the animal was lost, preferably with a photo. The Press Democrat offers a substantial discount to owners who have lost their pets. Check with local veterinarians to see if someone has brought the animal in or posted a found animal flyer there. If you've lost your cat, remember that she is a nocturnal animal, so try searching later in the day when she's more likely to be awake. Most importantly, keep actively searching for your pet.
Pets turn up at shelters weeks, and sometimes months, after they've been lost.
Likewise, finders will sometimes not report a wandering animal to us until weeks after it first appeared in their neighborhood. A name tag with your phone number on it is by far the easiest way for someone to contact you quickly if your pet ever goes wandering. Although we are not affiliated with FindaPet, we do receive a small commission for each customer we send their way - money we use to keep our Shelter programs going.