It can be scary when your pet manages to escape your home to seek adventure or another animal. No matter how much we try to prevent this it is good to be prepared. Here are some tips to help get your missing pet home safely.
Go Outside
You’ve just noticed your pet has escaped. The first thing you want to do is go outside and call out your pet’s name and any commands they respond well to. Maybe “car rides” or “walk” really excites your dog or shaking a treat bag always gets your cat’s attention.
Your pet may also try and hide. Look in places they might fit like under cars, behind bushes, or bins. Don’t forget to look outside at night as well, it can be quieter and easier for your pet to hear you.
Talk to your neighbors. Let them know you have lost your pet and how they should approach your pet if they come in contact. Share any commands they may respond to as well as any allergies or health issues.
Use Your Pet’s ID
Identification is so important. Having a collar with an ID Tag as well as a microchip is a great way to get your pet back. Contact your pet’s microchip company to flag their chip as missing. It is important to keep your contact information updated on both your microchip and ID Tag. New phone number? House address? It is time to update.
Go Online
Share a post on your social media platforms letting people know where your pet was last seen, contact information, a photo of your pet. Posting in your neighborhood Facebook groups will help you reach beyond your own personal network and reach people who are in your local area.
Old-fashioned Fliers
Post fliers with a current and clear photo of your missing pet, your contact information, and any information they may need to know about your pet. Place them around your neighborhood at busy intersections and parks near you.
Call Up Local Vets and Animal Shelters
There is a chance that someone has brought your pet to a local animal organization in an effort to return them to their owners. Get ahead of this and contact your local organizations so that they are aware in advance if your pet walks into their office.
Don’t Give Up
Keep looking in areas where your pet may have taken shelter or has frequented around the neighborhood with you on walks. Your pet is resourceful and instinctive. They are more adaptable than we may believe.