Lauren from L Bee and the Money Tree recently shared a story about her dog, Murray, who slipped out and wandered around the neighborhood at 11 p.m. during a rainstorm. The experience left her extremely worried until she finally found him.
Although Lauren’s story had a happy ending, it’s an experience many pet owners know well. I’ve been through it myself: last summer my dog Molly got away and was found a half mile from home. Pets go missing every day. Some estimates suggest millions of pets are reported missing annually. If you have a pet, there’s a good chance it may get out at some point. To improve the odds of a safe return, here are practical steps to reduce the risk of escape and increase the chances of a quick recovery.
Secure Your Perimeter
Many dogs will seize any opportunity to explore, and an open backyard gate can be an irresistible temptation. To prevent accidental escapes, install an automatic closing device on gates so they close themselves if left open.
Consider installing an underground electronic fence as an additional safeguard. These systems discourage digging and roaming beyond property lines and work even if a gate is accidentally left open. I have one around my property, and since then Molly rarely wanders off. These systems can cost a few hundred dollars and are often worth the investment. There are even versions designed for cats.
Register Your Pet
In many cities, dog registration is required and includes issuing an ID tag for the collar. These tags typically list an ID number and a phone number to call, giving whoever finds your pet a direct way to reach you.
Be sure to update registration details whenever you move. Outdated contact information renders the tag useless. Registration is usually inexpensive, renewable annually, and often legally required.
Microchip Your Pet
Microchipping is an excellent option for both dogs and cats and is routinely available at veterinary clinics. A small microchip is inserted under the pet’s skin and can be read by scanners used by vets and animal shelters. This is especially helpful if an animal control officer or shelter finds your pet.
A key advantage of a microchip is that it remains with the animal even if the collar and tags are lost. As with registration, keep your contact information current in the microchip database. Microchipping is generally affordable; mine cost $10 at the local SPCA.
Prepare a “Go” Plan
Sometimes, despite precautions, a pet still goes missing. Having a plan in place can significantly reduce search time. Keep a ready-to-print “Lost Pet” poster saved on your computer so you can quickly produce multiple copies. Join and monitor local lost-pet Facebook groups and message boards so you can rapidly share information with your community. Also contact nearby shelters and veterinary offices to report a missing pet and provide a description—shelters and vets are common places people turn over found animals.
Acting quickly and widely publicizing the loss increases the number of people watching for your pet, improving the chances of a quick reunion.
No one wants to imagine walking the neighborhood calling for a lost pet, but taking simple, affordable precautions can lower the risk of harm and raise the odds of a happy ending to your pet’s unexpected adventure.
Have you ever lost a pet? I want to know!