7 Ways To Keep Your Pet From Getting Lost

Did you know that as many as one in three pets are lost or stolen at some point over the course of their lives? That’s about ten million pets annually, which is a pretty sobering statistic. While we hope all of our patients stay safe and sound at home, this is one area where it really pays to take some precautions. Here, a veterinarian lists some ways to keep your beloved pet from getting lost.

Train Fido

All dogs should know basic obedience commands, such as Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. This is very important! Proper training can help keep Fido from running off if you drop his leash or if he slips out the door or gets scared of something,

Keep Kitty In

While your feline pal may love leaving dusty pawprints on your car or ignoring you when you call her, she’s much safer inside. Keeping Fluffy indoors won’t only reduce the chances of her getting lost: it also protects her from hazards like cars, weather, chemicals, and other animals.

Spay/Neuter

Dogs and cats that haven’t been fixed are also at greater risk of being lost, as they often want to run off in search of love. If your furry friend is still intact, make that appointment ASAP.

Use Leashes

Even if your canine pal is really well-trained, it’s always safest to keep him leashed whenever you take him off your property. Better safe than sorry!

Secure The Yard

Man’s Best Friend has quite a taste of adventure, and is definitely not above sneaking out to go exploring. Make sure that your fencing is secure, so Fido can’t go over, under, or through it. We also recommend getting a good self-latching gate.

Vigilance

Lost pet reports tend to really spike at certain times. Two of the biggest concerns are July 4th and New Years’ Eve. The noise of fireworks and parties frightens many pets, causing them to flee in fear. Even the most loving and loyal dog or cat can run if they get spooked! Thunderstorms can also scare our furry pals. Be extra careful at these times!

GPS Collars

This is a pretty new technology, but it’s one we are thrilled to see getting popular. There are several different types of these, so be sure to do some research before purchasing one. You’ll want to check reviews, of course, but it’s also important to look into various options for subscription fees and perks.

Do you want to learn more about microchipping? Contact us, your local veterinary clinic, anytime!