What to do if you have lost your Dog
Source: JoelZimmer
When a pet goes missing it generates panic, stress and upset. But it doesn't have to be a nightmare - you will understandably be distressed, but there are many things you can do beforehand to prepare yourself for this unfortunate occurrence.
1. Microchip
If you travel abroad with your dog, then he will already have been microchipped. Even if you don't travel abroad at all, it's a great idea to undertake this simple process for your pet, so that he can easily be found if he does go on an adventure. Police and RSPCA use chip scans to identify and return found strays, so it's well worth doing.
2. Prevention not cure
First of all, make sure that his home is secure. Your garden fence should not only be secure, but solid as well. What you may think is a small hole could be an easy escape route for your dog, and if you own a sturdier breed, they can often vault over or break through a flimsy fence.
3. Publicise the loss
Once your dog is definitely missing for a few hours or so, there are many things you can do to find him again. First of all, you should notify the police: they may have already picked him up. You are sure to have a photo of your dog, and it is quite simple to make a poster with his image to put on local lampposts (where he may already have left his scent). But this will be a time of waiting and hoping, not knowing where he is. There are other ways to alert others about your missing dog. For instance, petside.co.uk are currently offering to illustrate your dog to help others to be alert in the search for your missing pet. Informing as many people as possible, and allowing the network to spread as quickly as possible, can only help to reunite you with your dog.
Be prepared. Microchipping is essential, as is having an up-to-date photo of your dog, just in case you have to make some posters, either to post around the neighbourhood, or to post through neighbours' letterboxes. After all, prevention is the best cure. So make sure that your pet is never allowed to wander too far from your sight.
Contact Petside at media@petside.co.uk if you would like us to illustrate your lost dog and help you find them.
Petside: Get Started
-
- Kitten Life
Learn about the different life stages of your Kitten and much more!
-
- Puppy Life
Everything you need to know about raising a Puppy, all in one place! Check it out.
-
- Find a Breed
Browse dog and cat breeds to find your perfect pal.
-
- Diagnose a Condition
Use PetVet to research what's ailing your pet.
Comments (1)
carol dunn January 8, 2012 11:27 AM
Flagplease help us find our chihuahua, she is black and white 4years old lost on sunday 8th january in hayweoods, rowington warwickshire, please call me on 07966032847. she will be very nervous without her family around. please help me. thank you
Replyadd your comment