National Lost Pet Prevention Month

 

This month is National Lost Pet Prevention Month, do you have a plan in place in case your pet gets lost? More importantly, what preventions are you taking to keep your pet safe? Here are some tips to help you do just that. 

 

Identification Tags 

 

One of the simplest things you can do is make sure your pet has a collar with ID tags which include your phone number if possible. Along with ID tags, it's a good idea to have their rabies tag on their collar too. That way if your pet does get loose, you can be contacted right away once they are found. 

 

Microchip your pet! 

In the chance your pet does get out, are they microchipped and registered so you can be contacted? This is so important! Most people know to call their local shelter or take the pet to be scanned at any vet if they find a lost pet. This will save days of searching and worrying about your pet. Most shelter pets are microchipped before adoption, another reason to adopt before you shop. 

 

Teach your pet manners

We’re not saying accidents don’t happen, but knowing the commands come or stay could mean the difference between keeping your pet safe and your pet running off. If you’re doing off leash work and your pet sees a rabbit, knowing these commands can help prevent your pet from chasing it off into the woods or even into the street. 

 

Spay and neuter your pet

This is ideal for several reasons, however today, we will talk about how this helps lower the risk of your pet running off. Unaltered pets may run off seeking females and this is due to instinct. Make sure you talk to your vet about the appropriate time to spay and neuter your pet. 

 

Secure your property

This doesn’t mean build fences that reach the sky. This means use preventative measures that fit your pet and lifestyle. If you have a yorkie, you probably don’t need an 8-foot fence. Use indoor gates to prevent access from areas your pet may get out of. Use what works for you and your pet.

 

We hope these tips help and most of you are probably already doing these so good job! Pets are a part of our family, and we want to keep them safe. If you have ever lost a pet, you know how heart breaking that can be. Take the few extra steps and prevent the situation the best you can.