It’s a nightmare scenario: your dog or cat has escaped and they’re nowhere to be found. Despite taking precautions, even the most careful pet parents have experienced this scary situation; after all, no one ever plans on losing their beloved pet.
That’s why it’s important to always have a collar and ID on your companion whenever they leave the house. Of course, having them microchipped is the most permanent way to identify them as yours, and this simple procedure can be the difference between reuniting with a lost pet and never seeing them again.
If there ever comes a day when your pup or kitty runs away, it’s helpful to have a plan in place so you can act immediately. Below, check out 7 simple steps to take if your pet ever gets lost. Hopefully, they’ll be back home before you know it!
1. Don’t Panic
Yes, this is easier said than done, but it’s important not to waste time and energy panicking. Instead, try to think logically so you can put a plan together, and act as quickly as possible.
2. Take To Social Media
Social media certainly has its negative points, but this is one situation where it can really help. Writing a “lost pet” post and asking others to share is today’s equivalent of hanging up posters (which you should also do, below). Not only can this help you start to spread the word immediately, it can reach an audience far beyond your neighborhood.
Further, check if your city or state has its own lost and found pet page on Facebook. In fact, find and follow it now so you can post immediately if you ever need to. You may even be able to help another worried pet parent reunite with their furry friend!
3. Scan The Surrounding Area
If you think your pet has just escaped, remember that they can’t have gone too far. Walk your neighborhood with high-value treats in search of your dog or cat; if you can’t find them, hop in the car and drive slowly around nearby streets. See if you can recruit friends, family members, or neighbors to help.
Best case, you’ll be reunited with your pal in no time. If this happens, do not reprimand them for running away; they won’t know why they’re being scolded and will think you’re punishing them for coming to you. Instead, praise and reward them so they’re encouraged to obey you in the future.
4. Think Like Your Pet
Does your dog love playing in the local park? Does your cat enjoy climbing trees? Check places you think your pet may gravitate toward. Another thing to consider is whether they may be stuck somewhere, especially if they tend to hide when they’re scared (this can be especially true for cats). Look high and low, and behind and under objects, like around dumpsters, under cars, and beneath porches.
4. Call Local Shelters & Animal Control
Perhaps your pet was taken in as a stray. You might also want to pay these facilities a visit to see for yourself.
5. Hang Posters
If your pal doesn’t turn up after you’ve taken the above measures, some good old-fashioned posters should be hung in your area, too. Don’t forget to add a recent photo of them, as well as a contact number. If they’re shy or timid, adding a note like “shy, don’t chase” could be helpful. If this is the case, ask good Samaritans to report sightings rather than try to capture them.
6. Leave Out Food & Items With Their Scent
Your pup or kitty will eventually get hungry, and chances are, they’ll try to make their way home. The smell of their food can help entice them back. Further, putting items with their scent on it in your yard — like the litter box, toys, blankets, etc. — may also help guide them in the right direction.
7. Continue To Call Local Shelters & Animal Control Every Day
Call your local shelters and animal control every single day. They’re very busy, see lots of animals come in and out, and probably have a rotating staff, so notifying them once won’t be enough. Better yet, as mentioned, visit the facilities and check the cages yourself.
Further, call your vet and let them know your pet is missing — again, it’s a good idea to check in with them frequently. They can be on the lookout if someone comes in with your companion, whose microchips is registered to you. Last, ask if you can hang a “Lost” poster in their office. Not only will fellow animal lovers in your community see it, the staff members will be able to reference it if someone else brings your pet in.