These are mostly "Estray notices." That's where someone comes upon a stray animal, describes it, gets a neighbor or two to vouch for it and has the Justice of the Peace sign it. In a few cases, the "finder/finders" sign it. They describe the animal and, of course, where it was found.
 

If there wasn't a newspaper to advertise it in at the time, the notice was posted at the door of the court house.  These notices are free to anyone for a self-addressed, stamped, business-size envelope. 

Contact Bev Boileau for further information.