TIPS: HOW TO PREVENT YOUR PET
FROM GOING MISSING
Most pet owners never expect to lose a pet, but dogs, cats, birds, and other pets can escape easily. These tips can help prevent your pet from getting lost and improve the chances of finding them if they do. Preparing ahead may take a little time and money, but it’s worth it.
. 1) Make sure your pet always wears a collar and ID tags.
Even indoor pets should have tags with your name and phone number. Adding a second contact is helpful. Keep vaccination tags on the collar and write your phone number on the collar with a permanent marker in case the tags fall off.
If you are concerned about your cat's collar becoming caught on something, purchase a break-away collar.
2) Microchip your pet.
While it is not a guarantee, micro-chipping substantially increases the likelihood of a pet returning home by offering secure, reliable, unique and permanent identification.
3) Stay aware when entering or leaving your home.
Pets often wait for a chance to slip out the door, especially when visitors are around and doors open more often. Keep an eye on your pet so they don’t escape.
4) Never leave your pet unsupervised outdoors.
Always keep your pet in sight. Even in a fenced yard, pets can escape through open gates, dig under fences, or be stolen. Don’t tie your dog outside a store—dogs can slip their collar, chew through a leash, or be taken by a well meaning passerby.
5) Survey and secure your property.
Make sure there are no gaps or loose boards under your fence and that your fence is in good repair. Make sure there is nothing against the fence that your dog or cat can jump onto, and then over the fence.
6)Keep proof that your pet is yours.
Take a few clear, current photos of your pet. Include pictures with different hair lengths if they get groomed, since they can look quite different. It’s also a good idea to make sure your veterinarian has an up-to-date photo of your pet.
7) Have your pets spayed / neutered.
Pets who are still intact will roam because they are looking to fulfill the natural instinct to mate. Spaying / neutering will eliminate this desire and make it easier to keep them at home. Please see our Community Resources page for cost effective options.
8) Keep your pets inside when unpredictable weather or other events are occurring.
Use extra caution and secure your pets when storms are approaching or around other loud noises such as fireworks, construction or home renovations.
9) Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle.
Temperatures inside a car can become dangerously hot or cold very quickly, even when the weather seems mild. A trapped pet can suffer serious harm within minutes.
Concerned people may also break a window to rescue an animal they believe is in danger, which can lead to injury or damage. For everyone’s safety, it’s best to leave pets at home or take them with you.
10) Provide safe transportation.
Confining your pet in the car with either a travel crate or safety belt can help ensure they are not ejected from the car if you are in an accident. It will also prevent them from bolting when you arrive at your destination.
. 1) Make sure your pet always wears a collar and ID tags.
Even indoor pets should have tags with your name and phone number. Adding a second contact is helpful. Keep vaccination tags on the collar and write your phone number on the collar with a permanent marker in case the tags fall off.
If you are concerned about your cat's collar becoming caught on something, purchase a break-away collar.
2) Microchip your pet.
While it is not a guarantee, micro-chipping substantially increases the likelihood of a pet returning home by offering secure, reliable, unique and permanent identification.
3) Stay aware when entering or leaving your home.
Pets often wait for a chance to slip out the door, especially when visitors are around and doors open more often. Keep an eye on your pet so they don’t escape.
4) Never leave your pet unsupervised outdoors.
Always keep your pet in sight. Even in a fenced yard, pets can escape through open gates, dig under fences, or be stolen. Don’t tie your dog outside a store—dogs can slip their collar, chew through a leash, or be taken by a well meaning passerby.
5) Survey and secure your property.
Make sure there are no gaps or loose boards under your fence and that your fence is in good repair. Make sure there is nothing against the fence that your dog or cat can jump onto, and then over the fence.
6)Keep proof that your pet is yours.
Take a few clear, current photos of your pet. Include pictures with different hair lengths if they get groomed, since they can look quite different. It’s also a good idea to make sure your veterinarian has an up-to-date photo of your pet.
7) Have your pets spayed / neutered.
Pets who are still intact will roam because they are looking to fulfill the natural instinct to mate. Spaying / neutering will eliminate this desire and make it easier to keep them at home. Please see our Community Resources page for cost effective options.
8) Keep your pets inside when unpredictable weather or other events are occurring.
Use extra caution and secure your pets when storms are approaching or around other loud noises such as fireworks, construction or home renovations.
9) Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle.
Temperatures inside a car can become dangerously hot or cold very quickly, even when the weather seems mild. A trapped pet can suffer serious harm within minutes.
Concerned people may also break a window to rescue an animal they believe is in danger, which can lead to injury or damage. For everyone’s safety, it’s best to leave pets at home or take them with you.
10) Provide safe transportation.
Confining your pet in the car with either a travel crate or safety belt can help ensure they are not ejected from the car if you are in an accident. It will also prevent them from bolting when you arrive at your destination.
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