Have you ever felt your heart drop when you call for your pet and thereâs no response? July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month â a timely reminder that we need to keep them safe and prevent them exploring the big world on their own. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of them ending up on a âLost Petâ poster.
Microchips: Tiny Tech, Huge Impact
A microchip is like an ID tag under the skin. If your pet gets lost and ends up at a shelter or vet clinic, that chip is their best chance at a safe return. Just donât forget to update your contact info. A chip without current details is like sending a postcard with no address.
Tag, Youâre It
Even when a pet has a microchip, an ID tag or information printed on a collar can help them get back home faster. Clear identification with your phone number allows a kind stranger to contact you quickly.
The Great Escape: Plug the Gaps
Some pets are Houdinis in fur coats. Check your fences, screens, and doors. A loose screen or wobbly gate might be all it takes for an unplanned adventure. For indoor cats, be extra cautious around open windows or doors â especially if guests are coming and going. And make sure your screens canât be pushed outwards to release your curious cat.
The Power of Recall
Training matters. The recall command is often called the lifesaver command â and for good reason. Practice calling your pet with a command like âcomeâ and give them their favorite reward when they come to you. It can become a fun game you practice every day. Even if theyâre heading off on their own adventure, if your dog or cat has learned that “come” means something more exciting, theyâre likely to respond and come back to you.
Cool (and Protective) Gear
Harnesses, leashes, and martingales or headcollars are non-negotiable during walks. Even if your dog ânever runs off,â all it takes is one squirrel. For cats, consider a harness if theyâre venturing outside. Many cats donât like the feel of a harness at first, but they get used to it as they explore the âwilderness.â But no retractable leashes â they donât offer enough control and allow too much freedom in emergencies.
Get Tech Savvy
Explore the many pet GPS trackers available now that attach to collars. Some sync with your phone. Wouldnât it be great to have a âFind Your Petâ app on your smartphone?
Forgo the Fireworks
Summer brings fireworks, thunderstorms, and other loud events that can cause even the calmest pet to flee in panic mode. Keep them indoors, create a quiet zone, and never leave them outside during noisy holidays.
Know Your Local Shelters
If the worst happens, time matters. Have a list of nearby shelters and animal control contacts. Most pets that are found within 24 hours are returned â if someoneâs looking in the right places.
Your pet counts on you. Taking precautions now can prevent heartache later. So, this July, take five minutes. Check the collar. Scan the chip. Reinforce that gate. It might just be the best thing you do all summer.